Lithium for bipolar 2

[Georgia324]

Hi everyone, I have BP2 and have had PND now for nearly 8 months. I’m deciding between Venlafaxine and Lithium as my next med. I’m already on Lamotrigine and it works to a degree but not when I’m in a deep depression. I tried Quetiapine but hated it.

The people I know on Lithium have Type 1, but I’ve read a number of studies suggesting it in fact works even better for Type 2.

Does anyone here take Lithium successfully for Type 2 and specifically has it worked for depressive episodes as well as to keep you stable between episodes?

Thank you so much.

I take lithium and it prevents mixed states and hypomania very well. Mixed states were my main problem. Unfortunately lithium doesn't work on my depression and I need to take two antidepressants when it is on its worst.

Thanks very much for replying. Which antidepressants work for you? How long do your depressions last? What about your mixed states? Thank you!

Also how did your mixed states present? Thank you!

I take sertraline all the time and in winter when my mood drops mirtzapine is added.

Thank you for letting me know. How long did your depressions last before you were on lithium or the ADs? Do you think they all help you?