What is a common side effect of medication for mental health conditions?

Weight gain is indeed a common side effect of many medications prescribed for mental health conditions, particularly antipsychotics and some antidepressants. These medications can affect various metabolic processes in the body, leading to changes in appetite and fat distribution, which often result in increased body weight.

Understanding the side effects of these medications is crucial for patients and caregivers, as weight gain can lead to additional health complications, such as diabetes or cardiovascular issues. This knowledge allows for better management of the patient's overall health, including dietary recommendations, exercise regimens, and regular monitoring of weight.

In contrast, improved memory, increased metabolism, and decreased sleep requirement are generally not associated with these medications and can sometimes be further from the patient’s experiences while on psychiatric treatments. Instead, patients may face challenges with cognitive functions due to certain medications or changes in their sleep patterns, rather than a straightforward enhancement in memory or reduced sleep needs.