Hi, I'm new to this site. In fact just found it yesterday. I'm bipolar II (along with several other diagnoses.) Have been treated with Lithium 1200 mg (+ Paxil, Lamictal, Seroquel and Atavan.) Today I will see my pdoc who has been saying for several months that we need to begin making changes. She wants to increase the Lamictal and begin decreasing Lithium ... less side effects.

I have to admit I am quite apprehensive about any med changes. It's been four going on five years since someone was able to tell me that there is something chemically wrong with me and not just a matter of well, me being me. The past year and a half have been hell with med changes and I'm so afraid that this whole crazy depression cycle will start again. I can't put this off any longer, I'd really love to be on a med that does not have the side effects that the Lithium does ... but at what cost? Unforunately, I am one of those people (I don't know, am I in the minority on this one) who thinks if I just suffer thru the initial problems with a new drug/dosage it will work itself out ... can't begin to admit how many times I was wrong with that one!

Well, anyway I guess this message certainly does not contain a question. Just random thoughts and fears ... just under two hours now before the appointment. Maybe I am just psych-ing my self out?

- BTinCT