Lithium has been studied over 70 years. Its benefits go beyond mood stabilization — it also helps protect brain cells, supports brain development, and regulates important chemicals in the brain.

A Brain Protector

One of lithium’s key roles is neuroprotection — helping brain cells survive stress and injury. Studies show that lithium can reduce damage from strokes, brain inflammation, and certain neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It helps by reducing harmful processes in the brain, such as oxidative stress and inflammation, and by calming overactive brain signals that could otherwise damage neurons.

Helping the Brain Grow and Repair

Lithium also has neurotrophic effects, meaning it supports the growth and repair of brain cells. It boosts the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps neurons grow, stay healthy, and form connections. This is especially important in mental health, as lower levels of BDNF have been linked to depression and other disorders.

Balancing Brain Chemistry

Our thoughts, moods, and behaviors depend on brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Lithium helps regulate several of these, including serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine. These chemicals are involved in mood, motivation, memory, and attention. By keeping them in balance, lithium can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and mania.

Mental Disorders Treatment

Lithium has been widely studied for its effects on mental health. Most notably, it is a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder, helping to prevent both manic and depressive episodes. It has also shown promise in some studies in managing major depressive disorder, especially when combined with antidepressants. 

Other studies have explored its use in schizoaffective disorder, borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), impulse control disorders like pathological gambling, and even in reducing suicidal behavior. These findings support the idea that lithium’s mood-stabilizing and brain-protective actions can benefit a range of psychiatric conditions.

Why It Matters For you

Even very small amounts of lithium may help protect the brain and support mental well-being. Researchers are now developing safer, low-dose forms for long-term use such as lithium ascorbate.