Ep 30. What are mood stabilizers? with Psych NP Mikey Whited (they/he)
This week host Renae Johnson (they/them) and Psych NP Mikey Whited (they/he) real talk about what “mood stabilizer” medications really do (and don’t do).
In this episode we answer:
What does a mood stabilizer do? How does it work?
Who would benefit from being on a mood stabilizer?
If you start, do you have to stay on mood stabilizers forever?
How long does it take to feel the benefits of a mood stabilizer when taken regularly?
Are mood stabilizers addictive?
Join us as we dive into the medical details and social stigmas of these medications to get a clear picture if it can help you feel better and reach your personal goals.
Hey there, folx! Today, let's dive into the world of mood stabilizers –
those unsung heroes in the realm of mental health. As a therapist, I often find myself navigating the intricacies of these medications with my clients, and I'm here to shed some light on what mood stabilizers are from a therapist's perspective.
Firstly, what are mood stabilizers?
Well, think of them as the cool, calm guardians of emotional stability. They are a class of medications primarily designed to manage mood swings and prevent extreme shifts between highs and lows. Now, let's break down what this means in the therapeutic journey.
Mood stabilizers are often prescribed for conditions like bipolar disorder, where individuals experience intense mood swings, cycling between manic highs and depressive lows. But here's the thing – they're not just for bipolar disorder. Therapists might also explore mood stabilizers as part of a treatment plan for individuals with mood-related challenges, such as severe mood swings or irritability.
One key aspect therapists consider when discussing mood stabilizers is their role in creating a stable foundation for therapy. Think of it as setting the stage for emotional exploration and growth. When intense mood swings are in check, clients can engage more effectively in therapy, making the process smoother and more productive.
In the realm of mental health, considerations for our LGBTQ+ community are crucial,
and this holds true when discussing mood stabilizers. LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique challenges related to their identities, such as discrimination, stigma, or navigating mental health within the context of their diverse experiences. As a therapist, addressing these specific concerns is paramount. Mood stabilizers become part of a tailored approach to care, recognizing and respecting the intersectionality of an individual's identity. In therapy, it's about creating a safe and affirming space where our LGBTQ+ siblings can openly discuss their experiences, emotions, and the impact of medications on their mental health journey. The goal is to ensure that the use of mood stabilizers aligns with the client's individual needs and fosters a supportive environment for their emotional well-being within the broader context of your queer identity.
Now, let's talk about bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers play a pivotal role in managing the extreme mood fluctuations characteristic of this condition. For individuals experiencing manic episodes, mood stabilizers help to curb the intensity, promoting a more balanced emotional state. On the flip side, during depressive episodes, these medications provide a buffer, preventing the depths of despair from becoming overwhelming.
From a therapeutic perspective, the use of mood stabilizers often goes hand-in-hand with psychotherapy.
It's not a standalone solution but rather part of a holistic approach to mental health. Therapists work collaboratively with clients to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while the medication provides a stable platform for this exploration.
One challenge therapists may encounter is the misconception that mood stabilizers dull emotions. It's crucial to clarify that these medications aren't about erasing feelings but rather about creating a steadier emotional landscape. Clients can still experience the full spectrum of emotions, but with less intensity and volatility, providing a more manageable space for therapeutic work.
As a therapist, discussing medication is a nuanced dance.
It involves exploring the benefits and potential side effects, addressing concerns, and ensuring clients feel empowered in their treatment decisions. It's about fostering a collaborative relationship where clients actively participate in their mental health journey.
It's important to note that finding the right medication and dosage can be a process of trial and error.
Therapists support clients through this journey, monitoring their response to the medication, and making adjustments as needed. Open communication is key, ensuring that clients feel heard and understood throughout the entire process.
In conclusion, mood stabilizers are valuable tools in the therapeutic toolkit. From a therapist's perspective, they contribute to creating emotional stability, allowing clients to engage more effectively in the therapeutic process. These medications, when used in conjunction with psychotherapy, empower individuals to navigate the complexities of their emotions and build a foundation for lasting mental health. It's not about suppressing feelings but about fostering a balanced emotional landscape where growth and exploration can flourish. And in the journey towards emotional well-being, therapists are there every step of the way, supporting and guiding their clients towards a brighter, more stable future.
Guest Bio:
Mikey Whited, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC (he/they) is a psychiatric nurse practitioner working in Los Angeles, California. Mikey specializes in queer and trans psychiatric medication and mental health care for adults and older teens. Mikey is passionate about changing the psychiatry paradigm and providing quality medication education and care for clients in a way that will ACTUALLY work to help clients achieve their lifestyle goals.
Host Bio:
Renae Johnson (they/them) founded Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC), a group practice and community hub that focuses on mental health for and by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and their allies.
Renae is a licensed therapist and art therapist who specializes in working with queer artists who are exploring their gender identity and recovering from complex trauma. Previous to founding OSTC, Renae spent a decade in community mental health services, providing therapy and as an Operations Director in organizations serving people experiencing complex co-occurring diagnoses.
To find more from us visit:
https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com/meet-debbie
https://www.instagram.com/openspacetherapycollective/
https://www.tiktok.com/@openspacetherapy
https://www.tiktok.com/@mytherapistisout
https://www.instagram.com/mytherapistisout
Content warning: drug use, SI
Discussed in this episode: Taylor Tomlinson 2022 comedy special