Found out today im bipolar

[omg25]

The doctor started me on thilum today and im so scared to take it. Has anyone taken this and what are the effects. Will i ever be able to be without medication. I want more kids and a futur without medication and without racing thoughts. Any words of advice?

[omg25]

Its actually working pretty well. thanks

[jimgreg]

hows the lithiem  doing for you..thats a good med it will help you well it did me great....

[Lyndon_B]

........itll definately kill the racing thoughts :S

[hell1971]

Welcom to BP world, I had taken lithium for 5 months or so, I tolerated it well but it didnt work for me the side effects I did suffer were mild. I had a very very fine shake in one hand and yes I did gain weight, if was weight loss for me then I would have stayed on it lol. These drugs effect everyone differently so take your doctors advise and see how it goes. It can be scary when first diagnosed and taking meds but you will find great support on here.

take care

[omg25]

I am going to start tonite. I thought it was weight loss??? Or does it vary???

[florence1]

I was too just recently diagnosed and haven't yet taken the meds - worried about stomach upset and putting on weight.

[omg25]

Thank you for responding. Is there anything i can do that will help me? I was thinking of playing tennis or a hobby or something???? What do you think?

[ILADVOCATE]

Chances are you will always need medication. That will stop racing thoughts as well as other manifestations of bipolar. You'll still be able to have children. There is nothing frightening about lithium. Its a standard medication. I took it in the past as have many people here. The general pieces of advice are that its neccessary to follow up on the monthly blood tests and increase your intake of water. We have some websites linked up such as "Depression Central" (for all mood disorders) where you could find out more specific information. You could also ask the pharmacist for a medication hand out and speak to your psychiatrist as well. Generally lithium is one of the most effective mood stabilizers and the only mood stabilizer that was originally specifically developed clinically for that express purpose.