New Weight Loss Medications and Mental Health: What Every Patient Should Know
By Leona Kashersky, Psy.D.
In recent years, medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro—part of a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists—have surged in popularity. Originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, they are now widely prescribed for weight loss and metabolic health. But as a psychologist, I’m hearing an increasing number of patients ask: “How do these drugs affect my mental health?”
It’s an important—and often overlooked—question.
The Upside: Appetite, Weight, and Mood
GLP-1 medications can offer meaningful health benefits. By suppressing appetite, regulating blood sugar, and slowing digestion, these drugs can support weight loss, reduce food cravings, and help some people feel more in control of their eating. For individuals who have struggled for years with emotional or compulsive eating, these shifts can lead to boosts in self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of agency.
Stabilized blood sugar can also reduce mood swings, irritability, and energy crashes—giving people a more even emotional baseline.
But these potential upsides only tell part of the story
The Hidden Risk: Nutrient Deficiency and Mental Health
One of the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications is reduced appetite. While that may be the goal for many, it can also lead to a significant drop in nutrient intake—especially if patients eat much less but don’t intentionally shift toward nutrient-dense foods.
When the brain isn’t getting what it needs to function optimally, the emotional effects can be far-reaching:
Low B vitamins (B6, B12, folate): linked to depression, fatigue, and poor memory
Iron and protein deficiencies: can cause apathy, low energy, and trouble focusing
Low magnesium and zinc: associated with anxiety, poor sleep, and irritability
Insufficient omega-3s and healthy fats: may contribute to emotional blunting and cognitive fog
In other words, appetite suppression without nutritional support can result in a brain that’s undernourished and less resilient—even if someone is physically losing weight.
What I’m Seeing in My Practice
Patients using GLP-1 drugs sometimes describe emotional symptoms they didn’t anticipate:
Feeling emotionally “flat” or disconnected
Decreased motivation or joy in activities they once loved
Increased anxiety or edginess
Brain fog or trouble concentrating
Worsening of trauma-related symptoms or obsessive food/body thoughts
For people with a history of trauma, eating disorders, or chronic stress, these experiences can be especially intense—and sometimes re-triggering.
How to Protect Your Mental Health on GLP-1s
If you’re using a GLP-1 medication, you can take steps to safeguard your emotional well-being:
Prioritize nutrient-dense meals—even in small portions
Think: leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, avocado, and whole grains.
Don’t skip meals
Eat regularly, even if your portions are small. The brain needs steady fuel.
Work with a dietitian or nutrition-savvy provider
Especially if you’re struggling to eat enough or are noticing mood changes.
Watch for signs of emotional blunting or mood shifts
These are valid signals that your brain might not be getting what it needs.
Seek mental health support
If you’re feeling more anxious, emotionally numb, or disconnected, a therapist can help you explore the underlying dynamics and support your regulation.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss medications like Ozempic are powerful tools—but like any tool, they must be used with care. Mental health is intimately tied to nourishment, not just physically but emotionally and relationally. If you or someone you love is using a GLP-1 drug, pay attention to how you’re feeling—not just how much you’re eating. Your brain, body, and emotions all deserve care.
If you’re navigating the emotional and psychological changes that can come with GLP-1 medications, I invite you to reach out. At our practice, we offer trauma-informed, holistic mental health care that honors the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. To schedule a consultation or learn more, get in touch through our secure intake form!