One telltale sign of this metabolic syndrome, also known as insulin resistance, is having significant fat buildup in the abdomen. I've certainly got that - I look like I'm pregnant.

What does this mean for you?

If you, like me, have gained significant weight because of psychiatric meds, consider requesting blood tests including an A1C test - especially if the weight gained has mostly gone to your middle, like mine has. Not only could hyperglycemia be affecting your mood - metabolic syndrome could be endangering your life.

Sources:

Bermudes, R.A., et al. The Prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome in Psychiatric Inpatients With Primary Psychotic and Mood Disorders . Psychosomatics 47:491-497, November-December 2006.

Haupt, D.W. and Newcomer, J.W. Hyperglycemia and Antipsychotic Medications (PDF). J Clin Psychiatry 2001;62 (suppl 27).