Impact of mood stabilizers on creativity.

Abstract

While a DSM-5 criterion for both hypomania and mania is impaired functioning, the majority of those with a bipolar condition report improved functioning. When offered a mood stabilizer, many express concerns about any impact on their creativity. This piece seeks to address the question and attendant issues. Reference is made to the impact of differing mood stabilizers on cognitive performance and the limited data on any specific impact on creativity, while some personal observations are offered. There appears to be a distinctive gradient in the cognitive impacts of differing mood stabilizers, with lithium offering the highest risk, carbamazepine and valproate providing a slight risk, and lamotrigine seemingly without cognitive side-effects. The question not only invites a nuanced response from the clinician but argues for close observation of any cognitive side-effects when lithium is introduced.