Lithium is the "gold standard" or the "first line of defence" for Bipolar. Among many psych drugs I am on Lithium (which helps more for the hypomania/mania aspect) and Lamictal (which helps more with the Bipolar Depression - it's very good). One thing that hasn't been mentioned is that Lithium can destroy your thyroid function - it has mine, and now I am on another med to try to fix that, but it hasn't started to make a difference. The lack of thyroid function can do deveral things, one is to gain a lot of weight as the metabolism is affected. Another is that low thyroid function can actually contribute to depression. I had terrible psychiatrists for a long time (I didn't know that until after) and they seldom had my thyroid function tested bloods. Ask your psychiatrist about this aspect of Lithium and also about getting regular bloods.

Like many patients, I didn't get a correct diagnosis early on - but just like you, my correct Bipolar diagnosis came when I was Hypomanic/Manic in a session. It gave the psychiatrist a clear opportunity to see the signs. I would go along with the diagnosis you have been given, but also be open for your doctor to keep monitoring you over time, you telling the doctor your moods states etc, and you'll either stay with your current diagnosis or eveolve to another - happens all the time.

You're doing well girl!! And Hey, I'm an Aussie too!!!