It’s difficult to scroll through social media, walk into a health store, or watch the news without hearing about Ozempic or Wegovy. These GLP-1 medications have quickly become some of the most talked-about weight loss drugs, with many people turning to them for rapid results.
According to recent polls, around 12% of U.S. adults have used a GLP-1 medication.[1] But as these medications grow in popularity, conversations around their possible emotional side effects are growing, too. Some people report worsening anxiety or depression, while others say these medications have improved their mood or quieted intrusive thoughts around food. So, what does the research actually say?
In this blog, we explore the evidence behind GLP-1 mental health side effects, how weight loss medications may alter your mood, and what to do if you are facing unpleasant psychological side effects.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 agonists, more commonly known as “GLP-1 medications”, were originally developed to help regulate blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. But, as we now know, they can also support weight loss.[2] They work by:[2]
- Regulating blood sugar and insulin.
- Slowing digestion.
- Affecting brain signals linked to hunger and appetite.
Some of the most well-known GLP-1 medications may come in injection- or pill-form and are:
- Semaglutide.
- Ozempic.
- Wegovy.
- Mounjaro.
GLP-1 medications are available as FDA-approved treatments for diabetes and weight loss with a prescription, but as with all medications, they come with the potential for side effects. For instance, the most frequently reported side effects include:[3]
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
Medications that affect the body may also affect mental health, especially drugs like GLP-1s that interact with brain signalling.
This leads us to an important question: What’s the link between a person’s mood, mental health, and weight loss drugs?
Can GLP-1 Medications Affect Mood?
Because GLP-1 medications affect brain signals linked to hunger, appetite, and reward, researchers are beginning to ask whether they may also influence mood and emotions.
Therefore, researchers are now exploring the psychological effects of weight loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic, and early findings have raised important questions.
Although the research is still limited, some studies have reported mood changes, including:[4]
- Anxiety.
- Depression.
- Emotional blunting.
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, in rare cases.
However, other studies have found reductions in depressive symptoms and food-related intrusive thoughts.[4]
Emotional Side Effects of Semaglutide: Anxiety
While weight-loss medications have surged in popularity, research into GLP-1 mental health side effects is still developing. However, it is thought that drugs like Semaglutide may affect anxiety.
Only a small number of research studies have looked into Semaglutide anxiety symptoms. Some studies found that people who took GLP-1 medications reported higher levels of anxiety than control groups.[5]
Also, one study in particular looked at the official reports of side effects of GLP-1 medications and found that anxiety accounted for nearly 40% of the reported psychiatric side effects.[6]
Yet, other studies on weight loss drugs found mixed results from personal experiences shared on social media. Some users mentioned their anxiety had improved, while others had experienced anxiety as a side effect.[7]
Overall, current findings are mixed, although some studies suggest a link between GLP-1 medications and increased anxiety symptoms. More research is needed to fully understand their impact.
Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, and Emotional Blunting: GLP-1 Emotional Health Risks
If you search online, you’ll likely find that GLP-1 mental health side effects are thought to be wide-ranging, including depression, emotional blunting, and suicidal thoughts. But what does the evidence tell us?
Research remains limited, but available studies suggest that some people taking Semaglutide may experience mood changes, including:[4][5][6][7][8][9][10]
- Low mood.
- Irritability.
- Ruminations.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Appetite changes.
- Lower sex drive.
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
At the same time, other studies have reported mixed findings, with some people experiencing improved mood, some reporting worsening symptoms, and others noticing no emotional changes at all.[4][9][11][12] Some studies have even claimed that GLP-1s may have antidepressant effects.[7]
On top of this, the FDA has stated that it “did not identify an increased risk of suicidal ideation or behavior” linked to GLP-1 medications.[13] However, if you feel like you’re experiencing Wegovy depression side effects (or relating to another GLP-1 medication), including new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in mood or behavior, reach out for support.
Mission Connection is here to help you or your loved one take the next steps towards an improved mental well-being.
Why You Might Get Mood Changes From Weight Loss Medication
While researchers still don’t fully understand why some people experience mood changes on weight loss medications, there are several possible explanations.
One possible explanation is that GLP-1 medications affect areas of the brain involved in appetite, reward, and mood. So, if eating becomes less emotionally rewarding, some people may notice reduced enjoyment in other areas of life, too.[7]
Researchers also believe that GLP-1s may influence inflammation and hormones linked to mood regulation, which could help explain emotional changes.[7]
Also, rapid weight loss can bring up complicated emotions. When your body changes quickly, it can feel difficult to adjust to what you see in the mirror or feel fully comfortable in your changing body. Some people may even find the experience emotionally hard, as their self-image might be trying to catch up with the physical changes they’re experiencing.[4]
On top of this, physical side effects may play a role. Symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and stomach discomfort can become mentally draining over time. After all, it’s difficult to feel emotionally well when you feel physically unwell every day.
What’s more, social stigma might also affect emotional well-being. For example, some people may feel judged for using GLP-1 medications, or worry that others will see medicated weight loss as “the easy way out.” Over time, this shame or self-consciousness could affect a person’s confidence and mood.[4]
Finally, food itself can play a part. For some people, sugary or comfort foods may have acted as a coping tool or temporary mood boost.[14]
But with reduced appetite, emotional eating patterns may change too.[10]
When to Speak to a Doctor About GLP-1 Mental Health Side Effects
If you’re experiencing psychiatric side effects of GLP-1 medications, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional.
Some of the Semaglutide mental health effects to watch out for include:
- Feeling sad or emotionally numb.
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy.
- Feeling more anxious, irritable, or restless than usual.
- Sleeping troubles.
- Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness.
If you notice these changes, this may signal a mental health challenge developing or worsening while on weight loss medication. In these cases, it’s best to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional to seek guidance.
Find a Balanced Approach to Mental Health and Weight Loss Medications at Mission Connection
Not everyone experiences emotional side effects from Ozempic or Wegovy. Some people report improvements in mood, while others find their mental health symptoms worsen. In other words, experiences can vary significantly from person to person. This is why regularly checking in with your emotional well-being matters, especially when starting a new medication.
At Mission Connection, we help adults and teens facing new and pre-existing mental health challenges, including those related to weight and body image. Our team of licensed experts believes in delivering the best outcome possible through personalized treatment.
They will work with you to understand your concerns and needs and create a tailor-made treatment plan to help you reach your goals. We offer flexible outpatient treatment programs that include in-person treatment, virtual telehealth, and a hybrid approach that combines in-person and virtual care.
Reach out to us online or call 866-833-1822 to find out more about how we can support you.
