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Does Lithium Help With Anxiety?

According to the National Library of Health Daily Med website, lithium is the common name for the chemical compound lithium carbonate, a medication used to treat various mood disorders. While lithium is not directly suggested for the treatment of anxiety, it can be used to treat some symptoms of a range of anxiety disorders.

  1. Bipolar Disorder

    • According to the description of lithium on Drugs.com, the medication primarily is used to treat the manic symptoms of bipolar disorder. People suffering from bipolar disorder experience extreme highs (mania) and extreme lows (depression), severe mood swings that are uncontrolled without medication. The manic aspects of bipolar disorder include aggression, skewed judgment, rushed thinking, hyperactivity, slurred speech and a lack of a need for sleep. Lithium treats the manic symptoms of bipolar disorder by influencing the absorption of sodium (salt) through the nerve cells and tissues in the body. Sodium levels influence excitability and energy levels, so lithium works to reduce these levels from a manic state to a controlled state. While lithium normally is not prescribed specifically for anxiety, it can lessen the feelings of anxiety that someone in a manic state may experience.

    Side Effects

    • Lithium has a number of side effects. Because it is a type of salt, you should make sure that you stay hydrated and avoid becoming overheated if you're taking lithium. According to the Daily Med website, lithium should not be used by people with chronic or severe heart problems, those with kidney or heart disease, those who are dehydrated or those taking diuretics. The salt content in lithium and its influence on salt levels can put those suffering from hydration-related illnesses even more ill and can be fatal.

    Dangers and Alternatives

    • If you're experiencing anxiety symptoms and are curious about medication options, consider talking to a mental health professional regarding the available treatments for the condition. Never take another person's medication. If your symptoms are severe, talk to a mental health professional or visit an emergency room. Taking lithium without a prescription can cause severe damage to your kidneys and create a toxic environment in the body. HealthyPlace.com suggests the following medications for the treatments of anxiety disorders: valium, Halcion, Prozac, Effexor, Celexa, Lexapro, BuSpar, Nardil, Parnate, Norpramin, and Tofranil. Each medication has its own side effects and considerations, so before beginning any medication, make sure you have a clear understanding of how it may affect you.

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