Michael J Gitlin

Michael J Gitlin is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. With decades of experience in psychiatric research and clinical practice, he has established himself as a leading authority in mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorder and lithium therapy.

Dr. Gitlin received his MD from the University of Pennsylvania in 1975 and completed his psychiatry residency training at UCLA in 1979. His extensive clinical and research experience has positioned him as a prominent figure in academic psychiatry.

Dr. Gitlin's research primarily focuses on bipolar disorder treatment, with particular emphasis on lithium therapy, its long-term effects, and its declining usage despite proven efficacy. He has conducted extensive research on the relationship between environmental factors and bipolar symptoms, including solar radiation effects on suicide risk. His work also explores psychosocial management approaches for bipolar patients and the development of clinical practice guidelines. His publications demonstrate a commitment to improving clinical outcomes through evidence-based practice and comprehensive treatment strategies that balance efficacy, safety, and tolerability.

Analysis of Dr. Gitlin's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on lithium therapy, with multiple articles addressing its current state, long-term renal effects, and strategies to counter its declining usage. His research also spans psychosocial management approaches for bipolar disorder, suicide prevention strategies, and environmental influences on mood disorders. His collaborative work with international research networks demonstrates a global impact on bipolar disorder treatment approaches.

• Contributing author to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists clinical practice guidelines for mood disorders
• Extensive publication record with over 100 research articles spanning multiple decades
• Active participant in international bipolar disorder research consortia examining treatment approaches and outcomes

Dr. Gitlin has mentored numerous psychiatry residents and early-career researchers through his academic position at UCLA. His work with the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior has contributed to improved understanding of treatment approaches for mood disorders. He has collaborated extensively with leading researchers worldwide, including Mark Frye, David Miklowitz, and Keith Nuechterlein, among others.

As a member of the UCLA Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Dr. Gitlin contributes to a multidisciplinary research environment focused on advancing our understanding of psychiatric disorders and developing innovative treatment approaches that improve functional recovery beyond symptom remission.