anyone on lithium please read

[Artistguy]

I'm on 60mg. Cymbalta and have been for probably two years now. It helps somewhat for my depression but not good enough. I'm also bipolar, the depression holes being the worse. I have periods of intense creative release, feeling on top of the world, great self esteem. sleeping well, (no extravagent spending) self worthy, etc., etc. Then I slip into the darkness. A switch has been turned off. Energy drained, feel worthless, I don't shave, shower, I can't even speak a few words to anyone.I feel like a failure and will never make anything out of myself. I sometimes cry out, "I don't feel good, what's wrong with me?!" I'm totally depressed. I eventually start to feel better and everything is fine. My doc started me on 300mg. lithium at night and will increase to 600 in a week. I'm already sleeping better I feel. Has lithium worked for anyone and about how long does it take for your mood to even out?

[Artistguy]

Thanks for the info. I've been seeing a therapist for quite sometime regarding my depression. He helps somewhat, but when i'm in those really low moods it is sometimes very hard to crawl  out when your mood isn't stable. Thanks again.
Artistguy

[LLFgirl]

Lithium takes a few weeks to even out your mood...you usually have to have your blood monitored to make sure you are at the right level. I took it a few years ago and I had to have a blood test once every 2 or 3 months. It helps but can make you feel too relaxed if your dose is too high. So work with your doctor to get the right amount. Also, you might want to see a counselor to talk about your depression. It really helped me when I was struggling a few years ago.
Regards,
LLFGirl