GLP-1s and Your Mental Health: What You Need to Know Before Starting Medical Weight Loss

If you've been considering medical weight loss with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, you're not alone. These breakthrough medications have transformed how we approach weight management, offering hope for people who've struggled with traditional diet and exercise approaches. But here's something that doesn't get talked about enough: the connection between these medications and your mental health.

As we introduce medical weight loss services at Mindsett Mental Health and Wellness, we want to make sure you have the full picture before making this important decision. Because when it comes to your wellbeing, your mental health and physical health aren't separate, they're deeply connected.

The Research Is... Complicated

Let's be honest: the research on GLP-1 medications and mental health is all over the place. Some studies raise red flags, others show potential benefits, and still others find no significant effects. This isn't necessarily bad news, it just means we need to look at the whole picture.

The Concerning Findings

Several studies have identified potential mental health risks with GLP-1 use. One large analysis found that people taking these medications had a 195% higher risk of major depression and a 108% increased risk for anxiety compared to those not using them. Even more concerning, there was a 106% elevated risk for suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Another study found associations with a range of psychological symptoms including nervousness, stress, eating disorders, sleep disturbances, and even fear of eating. These risks seemed to increase over time, with psychiatric symptoms rising from about 9% at six months to nearly 40% at five years.

But Wait: There's Another Side

Before you get too worried, other research tells a different story. Some studies actually show that GLP-1s might help with depression and anxiety. The medications appear to promote brain health by encouraging the growth of new neurons and improving how brain cells communicate with each other.

One review found that people using GLP-1s actually had lower rates of depression and anxiety than those not using them. A controlled trial showed no increased risk of psychiatric side effects compared to placebo. Some researchers are even investigating whether these medications could help treat addiction and binge eating disorders.

Why the Mixed Results?

The conflicting research makes more sense when you consider a few key factors:

Baseline Mental Health Matters

People seeking weight loss treatment often have higher rates of depression and anxiety to begin with. Studies show that depression is much more common in people with diabetes and obesity: the very conditions that GLP-1s are designed to treat. So some of the mental health issues researchers observe might have been there already.

The Weight-Mental Health Connection

Carrying excess weight can contribute to depression and anxiety, while mental health struggles can make weight management more difficult. When someone loses significant weight with GLP-1s, it can improve their mood, self-esteem, and overall mental wellbeing. But the rapid changes can also be emotionally challenging to navigate.

Who Should Consider Medical Weight Loss?

GLP-1 medications aren't for everyone. They're specifically designed for people with:

• A BMI of 30 or higher, or

• A BMI of 27 or higher with related health conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea

These are powerful medications that work best as part of a comprehensive approach including lifestyle changes. If you're looking to lose just 10-15 pounds, the cost and potential side effects probably aren't worth it.

The Holistic Approach: Why Mental Health Support Matters

This is where Mindsett's approach to medical weight loss stands apart. We don't just prescribe medication and send you on your way. We understand that sustainable weight loss involves your mind, body, and lifestyle working together.

When you work with our team, including our Precision Nutrition Coach Chadwick Desseyn, you're getting support that addresses:

Your Relationship with Food

GLP-1s dramatically reduce appetite, which sounds great in theory. But if you've struggled with emotional eating, food anxiety, or disordered eating patterns, suddenly not wanting to eat can bring up complex feelings. Having mental health support helps you navigate these changes in a healthy way.

The Emotional Side of Weight Loss

Losing weight can be emotionally complicated. You might feel excited about the changes but also anxious about maintaining them. Some people experience identity shifts as their relationship with their body changes. Others worry about how friends and family will react.

Sustainable Lifestyle Changes

The most successful medical weight loss happens when medication is combined with lasting lifestyle changes. Our Precision Nutrition Coach works with you to develop eating patterns you can maintain long-term, while our mental health support helps you build the mindset and coping strategies for lasting success.

Red Flags to Watch For

If you decide to move forward with GLP-1 treatment, it's crucial to monitor your mental health closely. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy

• Increased anxiety or panic attacks

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

• Significant sleep changes

• Extreme mood swings

• New or worsening eating disorder behaviors

Questions to Ask Before Starting

Before beginning any GLP-1 medication, have an honest conversation with your healthcare provider about:

• Your complete mental health history, including any depression, anxiety, or eating disorders

• Family history of psychiatric conditions

• Current medications and supplements

• Your realistic expectations and commitment to lifestyle changes

• What mental health monitoring and support will be available

• Warning signs to watch for and how to report them

Making the Decision That's Right for You

The decision to use GLP-1 medications is deeply personal and should be made with careful medical guidance. These medications can be genuinely life-changing for some people, helping them achieve weight loss that improves their physical health, mental wellbeing, and quality of life.

But they're not magic bullets. The most successful outcomes happen when medical treatment is combined with ongoing mental health support, nutritional guidance, and sustainable lifestyle changes.

At Mindsett, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. If you're considering medical weight loss, we're here to support not just your physical transformation, but your mental and emotional wellbeing throughout the journey.

Your mental health matters just as much as the number on the scale. When both are supported together, that's when real, lasting transformation happens.

Ready to explore whether medical weight loss is right for you? Book a consultation to discuss your options with our compassionate, holistic care team.