i really like what your dad said. it is a change from the idea that people who want to/ try to/ or do suicide are weak. i like also the hope that it gives, that the same strength that goes against living can be used to continue living.

i'm not sure about the brand vs generic. the studies available are sparse to say the least. there is evidence that one generic was bioequivalent. there are a few studies showing an increase in seizures for epileptics with a change to generic but the study design was flawed with significant bias. The remaining studies were in Danish which I can't read! If anyone out there can read and review them it would be great!
It is presumed that changes in serum levels of the drug would have a greater effect on epileptics than bipolar sufferers. There is also the possibility that increasing the dose of the generic may improve the effect in the case were the serum levels differ.
At any rate, for the moment I will be taking the brand name, however if it becomes financially impossible then I will switch to the generic albeit at a higher rate.