Mood Stabilizers: Side Effects and What to Expect

Lyte Psychiatry – Dallas & Arlington, TX/ Best Adults and Adolescents Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You | Affordable Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You

Starting a mood stabilizer can feel like a big step, especially if you're already overwhelmed by symptoms like mood swings, irritability, or depression. At Lyte Psychiatry, we often hear patients ask:

🔹 “Will it change my personality?”

🔹 “What side effects should I expect?”

🔹 “Is it worth it?”

These are all valid concerns. If you or your loved one are considering mood stabilizers, this guide can help you understand what to expect and how we support you through every phase of treatment.

What Are Mood Stabilizers?

Mood stabilizers are a class of medications that help regulate extreme emotional highs and lows, often used in the treatment of:

🔹 Bipolar I and II Disorder

🔹 Cyclothymia

🔹 Mood swings associated with depression or schizoaffective disorder

🔹 Irritability and emotional dysregulation (sometimes in ADHD or PTSD)

Unlike antidepressants, which primarily elevate mood, mood stabilizers aim to even out emotional extremes—reducing the severity and frequency of both manic and depressive episodes.

Common Mood Stabilizer Medications

🔹 Lithium – One of the oldest and most effective treatments for bipolar disorder

🔹 Valproate (Depakote) – Often used for rapid-cycling bipolar or mixed episodes

🔹 Lamotrigine (Lamictal) – Well-tolerated; commonly used for depressive episodes in bipolar disorder

🔹 Carbamazepine (Tegretol) – Sometimes used when other options are not effective

🔹 Antipsychotic mood stabilizers – Such as quetiapine (Seroquel) or aripiprazole (Abilify), used when mood swings include psychotic features

Your provider will recommend the best option based on your specific diagnosis, symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.

Common Side Effects to Be Aware Of

Not everyone experiences side effects—and many are temporary as your body adjusts. Still, it’s important to be informed.

⚠️ General Side Effects (Depending on the Medication):

⚠️ Drowsiness or fatigue

⚠️ Weight gain or changes in appetite

⚠️ Dizziness or blurred vision

⚠️ Nausea or stomach upset

⚠️ Tremors (especially with lithium)

⚠️ Memory or concentration difficulties

⚠️ Increased thirst or urination (common with lithium)

🩺 Less Common but Serious Risks:

🔹 Liver function changes (with Depakote or Tegretol)

🔹 Low white blood cell count

🔹 Thyroid or kidney issues (with long-term lithium use)

🔹 Rare skin reactions (with Lamictal)

🔹 Regular blood tests may be required for some medications to monitor your safety and track effectiveness.

What to Expect When Starting Treatment

✅ Initial Adjustment Period: It may take several weeks to notice the full effect. During this time, your provider may adjust your dose to find the right balance.

🧠 Emotional Changes: Some people feel calmer, more focused, and less reactive. Others may need time to get used to feeling emotionally “even” after being used to extreme highs or lows.

🤝 Support and Monitoring: At Lyte Psychiatry, we closely monitor how you respond—offering follow-ups, check-ins, and medication adjustments to make sure your treatment is safe and effective.

Seek Professional Support Near You at Lyte Psychiatry (Affordable Therapist and Psychiatrist Near You) Dallas & Arlington, TX

If mood swings, outbursts, or emotional crashes are interfering with your life, mood stabilizers might be a key part of your healing. At Lyte Psychiatry, we approach treatment with compassion, clarity, and collaboration—so you never feel alone in the process.

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Call us if you have questions at 469-733-0848

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will mood stabilizers change my personality?

A: No. They help reduce extreme mood shifts, allowing your natural personality to come through more clearly—not less.

Q: How long will I need to be on medication?

A: This varies. Some people benefit long-term; others may taper off with symptom improvement. Decisions are always made collaboratively.

Q: Can teens use mood stabilizers?

A: Yes, with proper diagnosis and monitoring. Our providers specialize in adolescent mental health and take age-specific needs seriously.

Q: Are there alternatives to medication?

A: Mood stabilizers are often most effective when combined with therapy, lifestyle changes, and support strategies. In some cases, non-medication approaches may be considered.