Living with bipolar disorder often means walking a tightrope between stability and unpredictability. When symptoms like manic episodes, bipolar depression, or mood swings take over, the right medications can be lifesaving. But what happens when the very bipolar medication prescribed to help brings its own challenges?
At Neurish Wellness, we understand that managing bipolar disorder isn’t just about symptom control—it’s about treating the whole person. Our luxury mental health program offers comprehensive support for clients navigating both treatment and the complex realities of side effects. Here’s what we want you to know.
The Unspoken Truth About Bipolar Medications
Bipolar disorder medications are essential to treat bipolar disorder, prevent manic or depressive episodes, and help manage symptoms long-term. These often include mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and sometimes antidepressants. Common options include lithium, valproic acid, and various antipsychotic drugs.
But while these medications can be transformative, the side effects can be surprisingly difficult—and often under-discussed. Many clients arrive at Neurish frustrated, confused, and questioning whether their treatment plan is working for them or against them.
Let’s break down some of the most common (and most overlooked) side effects of medications for bipolar disorder.
1. Weight Gain
One of the most common side effects—especially with mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications—is weight gain. Medications like valproic acid and some second-generation antipsychotics can increase appetite, slow metabolism, and disrupt sleep patterns, making it harder to maintain a healthy routine.
At Neurish, we integrate nutritional support and wellness coaching to help clients navigate this challenge without shame. We can also help you find a different medication – one that may not have such an impact on your weight.
2. Cognitive Fog and Blurred Vision
Certain antipsychotic drugs or high doses of mood stabilizers may lead to slowed thinking, forgetfulness, or even blurred vision. It’s not just frustrating—it can affect work, relationships, and your sense of self. This isn’t a personal failure; it’s a drug reaction that needs compassionate adjustment, which we provide at Neurish.
3. Thyroid and Hormonal Changes
Mood stabilizers like lithium can disrupt thyroid function, which may require additional thyroid medications and routine blood tests to track abnormal levels. These systemic shifts can affect energy, mood, and even physical appearance. At Neurish, we screen and monitor systemic symptoms closely to protect your physical and emotional health.
4. Low Energy and Restlessness
Many clients report feeling both exhausted and restless at the same time. It’s a paradox that can occur with mood stabilizing medication, especially during early stages of treatment or with mixed episodes. Feeling “off” doesn’t always mean the medication is wrong—it might just need adjusting.
5. Suicidal Thoughts or Increased Depression
Paradoxically, some medications intended to reduce depressive episodes can temporarily worsen depressive symptoms in certain people, especially during the adjustment period. If you notice suicidal thoughts after taking medication, it’s vital to let your mental health specialist know immediately.
Neurish offers round-the-clock monitoring for clients in active treatment, ensuring safety and support every step of the way.
6. Drug Interactions and Unexpected Reactions
Combining prescription drugs, recreational drugs, or supplements with bipolar medication can lead to unpredictable outcomes. This is especially true for those with a history of substance abuse or drug and alcohol misuse. We take family history, lifestyle, and any other medications into account when developing your treatment options.
When to Reassess Your Treatment Plan
Medication should never make you feel worse than the condition it’s treating. If you’re experiencing ongoing side effects, extreme changes, or feeling like your symptoms are worse, it may be time to consider a different medication or new treatment plan.
At Neurish Wellness, we offer a calm, beautiful residential environment where clients can safely transition between medications under the care of top-tier clinicians. Whether you’re struggling with bipolar I disorder, bipolar II, or related disorders, we provide the structure and support needed for long-term success.
Our Approach to Bipolar Medication Management
We believe successful bipolar disorder treatment isn’t just about treating mania or staving off a depressive episode—it’s about helping each client thrive. Our comprehensive care includes:
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Individualized treatment plans
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Careful monitoring of mood episodes and medication response
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Ongoing collaboration with prescribing psychiatrists and mental health professionals
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Holistic support for stressful events, lifestyle changes, and medication adherence
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your journey, you deserve a team that sees the whole picture.
Reach Out to Neurish Wellness
If you or a loved one is feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed by the side effects of bipolar medication, you are not alone—and you are not overreacting. At Neurish Wellness, we believe in listening first and treating with care.
Contact us today to explore how our upscale, deeply supportive mental health program can help you find the balance and peace you’ve been looking for.
FAQs About Bipolar Medication and Side Effects
How is bipolar disorder treated effectively?
Bipolar disorder treated effectively usually involves a combination of mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. At Neurish Wellness, we take a comprehensive, person-centered approach to ensure that treatment is tailored to the unique needs and goals of each client.
Can bipolar medication affect other mental health conditions?
Yes. Individuals with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, PTSD, or OCD, may experience unique challenges when starting bipolar medication. Our clinical team assesses for co-occurring mental health conditions to ensure the full picture is considered when creating a treatment plan.
What is lithium toxicity and how can it be prevented?
Lithium toxicity occurs when blood levels of lithium become too high, potentially leading to nausea, confusion, tremors, or kidney issues. Regular blood tests and careful dose management are essential to prevent it. At Neurish Wellness, we monitor all clients closely for signs of systemic symptoms like toxicity.
Do I need to take my medication regularly for it to work?
Yes. Taking your medication regularly is essential for stabilizing mood and preventing manic or depressive episodes. Skipping doses or abrupt changes can lead to rapid cycling, relapse, or withdrawal effects. We offer compassionate medication education and adherence support as part of your care plan.
How can I manage stress while on bipolar medication?
Called hypomania, this is a state of elevated mood, energy, and activity that’s less severe than full mania. It’s a key feature of bipolar II disorder and often feels productive at first—but can lead to impulsivity, irritability, or burnout. It’s important to talk to a mental health specialist if you think you’re experiencing hypomania.
What is rapid cycling in bipolar disorder?
Rapid cycling refers to having four or more mood episodes—manic, hypomanic, or depressive—in a single year. It often indicates the need for treatment reassessment or medication adjustments. At Neurish Wellness, we specialize in stabilizing clients with rapid cycling patterns through expert medication management and therapeutic care.
Why am I feeling restless after starting medication?
Feeling restless can be a side effect of certain bipolar disorder medications, especially antipsychotic drugs or activating antidepressants. This can sometimes improve over time, but if it persists, we may adjust the dosage or explore a different medication.
Why doesn’t one drug work for everyone?
Because bipolar disorder varies widely in symptoms and severity, one drug rarely works for every individual. Genetics, medical history, co-occurring disorders, and personal response all influence which medications for bipolar disorder will be most effective.
Can bipolar medication cause weight loss instead of weight gain?
While weight gain is more common, some people may experience weight loss due to reduced appetite or gastrointestinal side effects. Both changes are monitored closely at Neurish Wellness, and we provide nutritional guidance to ensure each client maintains a healthy, balanced weight.
Cole Dyar is the Executive Director & co-founder of Neurish Wellness. He has been working in the behavioral health field in operational, clinical, organizational, and managerial capacities for thirteen years. He holds a degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in sociology and is a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) as recognized by CCAPP. Cole holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology including: Organizational Leadership and Design, a Post-Masters in General Marriage and Family Therapy, and is currently a doctoral candidate in MFT with an emphasis in Systemic Administration & Entrepreneurship.