I take Trileptal (oxcarbazepine). It is the only thing that has worked for me. It was like a miracle drug! I've tried depakote, tegretol, and lithium, none of which helped. The side effects of depakote became unacceptable to me within a month so went off it as soon as possible. Maybe it will work for you though. I supplement the Trileptal with Wellbutrin which I tolerate very well. I have heard a lot of people don't though.

One thing nice about trileptal is that I take all of it at night which gives me a full nights rest that I would not normally have. The bad thing is that I still sometimes feel tired during the day but I will totally take that. It is worth it because since I started it years ago I have not had to be hospitalized at all. I now function and have a full life.

Also, I downloaded "optimism lite" to my computer. It is a free mood chart program that I can keep track of triggers, stay well strategies and symptoms. I print it out and take it in to the therapist as well as my psychiatrist. For me, looking at a chart gives me a better perspective than trying to remember how things are going because if I am fluctuating in moods than my memory perception will be off. It is a great "non-med" strategy that supports what meds can't do.

I don't have anyone personally in my life who can see if I am "off" or not so I have had to find ways of doing it myself. I've had to become proactive in my own health and wellbeing. It seems like you are also doing that and that will benefit you down the line. It is always better to know more and have your research in hand.

Alex