Finding the Right Mood Stabilizers for Your Needs

Mood swings can happen to all of us from time to time. One moment, you’re feeling excited and ready to take on the world, and the next, you’re hit with a wave of sadness. While occasional mood swings aren’t cause for too much concern, constant mood fluctuations can indicate a deeper problem. If your mood swings are becoming overwhelming or disruptive, consider your options for mood stabilizers. We encourage you, along with your psychiatrist, to investigate these medications and learn more about how they can benefit you.

How Do Mood Stabilizers Work?

Mood stabilizers are medications designed to regulate and balance mood swings, particularly in people with mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. These medications target neurotransmitters (the chemical messengers in the brain) to help improve emotional stability. Depending on your specific condition, mood stabilizers might:

Reduce the frequency and intensity of manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes
Maintain emotional balance and prevent rapid mood cycling

The Different Types of Mood Stabilizers

Mood stabilizers are not one-size-fits-all. Their effectiveness can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific symptoms you’re experiencing, your medical history, and potential side effects. With this in mind, psychiatrists and primary care doctors consider several categories of mood stabilizers when prescribing to a patient. Learn more about these common types:

Lithium

One of the oldest and most researched mood stabilizers, lithium is often a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder. It helps reduce manic episodes and prevents them from recurring, but it can also be effective for some depressive symptoms. However, those on lithium will need to take regular blood tests to monitor lithium levels. This is because improper dosing can lead to major side effects for the kidneys and thyroid.

Anticonvulsants

Originally developed to treat epilepsy, anticonvulsants (also called anti-seizure medications) are now widely used as mood stabilizers. They are particularly effective for managing hypomanic or depressive episodes. Many patients report fewer mixed episodes and instances of mood cycling. Anticonvulsants may be beneficial for those who struggle with lithium’s side effects. Nevertheless, this type of medication comes with a few drawbacks as well. It requires consistent liver function monitoring and may cause these side effects:

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Gastrointestinal issues

Atypical Antipsychotics

These medications are typically used for disorders like schizophrenia, but folks with bipolar disorder may see significant benefits as well. They’re often prescribed in combination with antidepressants or lithium for patients experiencing bipolar mania. Antipsychotics work quickly to alleviate severe manic or depressive symptoms and could be a good short-term solution. However, they may lead to these side effects:

Weight gain
Metabolic changes
Restlessness or agitation

Who Can Benefit From Mood Stabilizers?

Over the years, countless people have benefitted from mood stabilizers. While their suitability for you will depend on a variety of factors, folks with these conditions have seen improvement after using these medications:

Bipolar Disorder—Mood stabilizers are the first-line treatment for both bipolar I (characterized by manic episodes) and bipolar II (characterized by hypomanic and depressive episodes).
Cyclothymia—People with this milder form of bipolar disorder might see noticeable improvements after taking an anticonvulsant or atypical antipsychotic.
Treatment-Resistant Depression—Mood stabilizers like lithium can be effective when combined with antidepressant therapy. However, it’s worth noting that mood stabilizers are not typically prescribed for standard depression or anxiety unless severe mood instability is present.

What Psychiatrists Consider When Choosing a Mood Stabilizer

When psychiatrists choose a mood stabilizer to prescribe, they do so with a deep understanding of each option and their patient’s circumstances. Your provider will consider all of the following before putting you on a specific mood stabilizer:

Your Symptoms—Your psychiatrists will ask you lots of questions to gain an understanding of your symptoms, as certain mood stabilizers work better for specific symptoms. For example, lithium is particularly effective for manic episodes, while lamotrigine is usually better for depressive symptoms.
Potential Side Effects—Each medication comes with potential side effects that should be monitored. If you have concerns about certain effects, be sure to bring them up with your psychiatrist. They can help ensure you receive a medication you’re comfortable with.
Medical History—Your medical history plays a crucial role in selecting the right medication. For instance, if you have kidney or thyroid issues, your provider may advise against lithium.
Monitoring Requirements—Certain medications, like lithium or valproic acid, require regular blood tests to monitor levels and prevent toxicity. Let your doctor know whether or not you’re prepared for this additional time commitment.

What to Expect When Starting Mood Stabilizers

If you’re on track to start mood stabilizers soon, it’s helpful to fully understand what to expect from the medication. First, keep in mind that there is no “miracle drug.” Even the best mood stabilizer won’t eliminate all your symptoms overnight. Allow several weeks for the medication to build up in your system and show its full effects. Additionally, be flexible with dosage. Your doctor will typically start you on a low dose and gradually increase it until you find a good balance. Be sure to regularly follow up with your provider during this time and let them know how the medication is working for you. Always note your side effects—your doctor may be able to make adjustments to reduce them.

Helping You Work Toward Better Stability

For many patients, starting a mood stabilizer is life-changing. Once you find the right medication dosage, the benefits can make a significant impact on your overall quality of life. It all starts with just one appointment with a psychiatrist. At Family Psychiatry and Therapy, we’re committed to working with you to find the best combination of treatments. While managing a mood disorder is a lifelong process, we’re here to be your support along the way. Contact us today to make a telehealth appointment with our New Jersey providers.