The Effects of Antipsychotic Medications on Weight
It is widely known that taking antipsychotic medications often leads to quick and significant weight gain.
A study recently published in Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice delves into the experiences of patients dealing with this side effect and their preferences for managing it.
In this study, interviews were conducted with 10 people who were taking antipsychotic medications.
The patients shared their experiences, explaining that at first, the rapid weight gain was overshadowed by their mental health struggles and their treatment.
However, as time passed, the reality of their weight gain became a shock to them. This unexpected change contributed to feelings of low self-esteem, a sense of powerlessness, and a loss of hope.
The Psychological Impact of Weight Gain
The sudden weight gain amplified feelings of vulnerability for these patients.
This increased vulnerability led them to withdraw from social activities, caused depression, and in some cases, even aggravated their psychotic experiences.
The researchers who conducted this study highlighted the importance of understanding the emotional journey of patients gaining weight due to antipsychotic medications.
They suggested that recognizing this emotional journey might lead to new ways of developing treatments for weight loss.
The Way Forward: New Targets for Treatment
Felicity Waite, DClinPsy, the lead author of the study from the University of Oxford, highlighted the significant effects of excess weight on both physical and psychological wellbeing.
“In this study, people with psychosis explained how weight gain not only diminishes confidence and mood but also contributes to paranoid fears and hearing critical voices,” she said.
The insights gained from this study point towards new targets for treatment. Waite added, “We now need to develop effective interventions.
This study identifies new targets for treatment—rebuilding confidence may be a necessary first step in tackling excess weight.”
This suggests a holistic approach to managing weight gain, one that addresses both physical and psychological wellbeing.
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The study was published in Theory, Research and Practice.
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