How Do Mood Stabilizers Work?

Mood swings are a natural part of life, but for individuals with mood disorders like bipolar disorder, these fluctuations can be extreme and disruptive. When these highs and lows become more than just emotional responses to daily life and begin interfering with relationships, responsibilities, and overall well-being, medication may be necessary. Mood stabilizers are among the most effective tools in treating these conditions. They are prescribed to help manage intense mood changes, bringing balance and stability to a person’s emotional state. Understanding how these medications work can empower individuals and their families to make informed decisions about treatment options.

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health and its related symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Call us today or visit our admissions page to start your path to healing.

What Are Mood Stabilizers?

Mood stabilizers are a class of medications primarily used to treat mood disorders such as:

  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Schizoaffective Disorder
  • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
  • Treatment-resistant Depression (in conjunction with other medications)

Unlike antidepressants, which focus primarily on improving low moods, mood stabilizers aim to prevent extreme mood fluctuations in either direction—high or low. This dual focus makes them uniquely suited for treating complex mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder, where both manic and depressive episodes may be present.

How Do Mood Stabilizers Work?

Mood stabilizers work by altering the brain’s chemistry in ways that prevent drastic mood shifts. They influence several key systems and processes in the brain:

1. Regulating Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemicals play a significant role in regulating emotions and mood. Mood stabilizers work to balance these neurotransmitters, ensuring that no single chemical becomes overly dominant, which could lead to manic or depressive episodes.

2. Modulating Ion Channels

Certain mood stabilizers, particularly lithium, affect the flow of sodium and calcium in and out of neurons. This stabilization of electrical activity helps regulate mood and prevent episodes of mania or depression from taking hold.

3. Enhancing GABA Activity

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces neuronal excitability. When GABA levels are increased, brain activity is calmed, which helps manage anxiety and emotional reactivity often seen in mood disorders.

Types of Mood Stabilizers

Lithium

Lithium has been used since the 1970s and remains one of the most effective treatments for bipolar disorder. It’s particularly effective at preventing manic episodes and reducing suicidal thoughts. However, lithium requires regular blood tests due to its narrow therapeutic range—too little won’t be effective, and too much can be toxic.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants like valproic acid, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine were originally designed to treat epilepsy, but have since been found effective for mood stabilization. These medications are often used when lithium isn’t suitable. Lamotrigine, in particular, is favored for treating bipolar depression.

Atypical Antipsychotics

Certain antipsychotic medications such as quetiapine, olanzapine, and aripiprazole also act as mood stabilizers. These are often prescribed when symptoms of psychosis (like hallucinations or delusions) are also present, or in conjunction with other mood stabilizers for more comprehensive symptom control.

Considerations and Side Effects

As with all medications, mood stabilizers can come with side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Nausea or gastrointestinal issues
  • Weight gain
  • Tremors or shakiness
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Thirst and frequent urination (particularly with lithium)

Some people also report experiencing cognitive dulling or emotional numbness, especially when starting treatment. These effects can often be mitigated through careful dosage adjustments or switching medications. It is essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor symptoms, conduct regular blood tests (when needed), and make informed adjustments.

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Who Might Benefit From Mood Stabilizers?

Mood stabilizers are most commonly prescribed for individuals with bipolar disorder, but they may also be useful for:

  • People with severe mood swings that do not respond to other treatments
  • Individuals experiencing rapid cycling moods
  • Those with co-occurring anxiety or substance use disorders where emotional dysregulation is a significant concern

At The Meadowglade, our clinicians conduct comprehensive assessments to determine whether mood stabilizers are appropriate, and which type may be most effective based on the client’s unique symptoms and medical history.

Integrating Mood Stabilizers Into a Comprehensive Treatment Plan

Medication can play a critical role, but it is rarely effective in isolation. A well-rounded treatment plan should address all aspects of a person’s mental, emotional, and physical health.

At The Meadowglade, we take a holistic approach that often includes:

  • Individual and group therapy, such as CBT and DBT, to help individuals process emotions and learn coping strategies
  • Nutritional counseling to support brain health and overall wellness
  • Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques to improve emotional regulation
  • Family therapy and support groups to strengthen interpersonal relationships

By combining pharmacological treatment with behavioral interventions and lifestyle support, we create a sustainable path toward emotional wellness.

Begin Mental Health Treatment in Los Angeles Today

If you or someone you love is struggling with mood swings, emotional instability, or a diagnosed mood disorder, The Meadowglade is here to help. Located in peaceful Moorpark, California, our team of experienced professionals offers evidence-based treatment in a supportive and serene environment.

We provide personalized care plans that incorporate medication management, therapy, and holistic wellness strategies. Reach out to The Meadowglade today to learn more about how mood stabilizers and our comprehensive mental health services can support long-term recovery and emotional well-being.