Anyone on lithium?

[4dogs]

I have bipolar, was hospitalised for a manic episode in January and have since been on olanzapine. Saw psychiatrist today and because I am now in a deep depression she wants me to take lithium. I feel terrified by the idea of it. Does anyone take it and can tell me what is it like?

I used to take lithium and the only side effect I had was increased thirst.

I found lithium very helpful and it's the only drug I have ever taken for my bipolar.

I really hope you feel better soon.

I'm not bipolar but was on lithium for 3 months some years back alongside venlafaxine for a persistent servere depressive episode. It did the job and I've not been that bad since (touch wood). The worse thing about it was the regular blood tests.

Thanks. The psychiatrist did say you have to hydrate a lot more when on it. I have to have blood tests and an EEG (i think) before I start on it. It all just seems so scary.

It is a scary prospect, I remember being scared when the Dr suggested it to me, but it really was the turning point for me. I really hope it works for you.