I started with Depression at the age of 19 and am now 55 years old. After much different diagnosis my Consultant told me that I have Bi-polar Affective Disorder about 5 years ago. I have been on many different kinds of Medication over the years and have learnt how to cope with it better. Although with me its more of the deep depressions that I have found hard to cope with.

My Daughter is getting married this year and I really want to lose weight so that I can really feel good about myself. As you probably know that some of the medications put on weight and that is what I am struggling with at present. I am on Sodium Valproate 500 mg twice a day, Neurontin (Gabapentin) 300 mg twice a day and Effexor XR 150 mg twice a day. About a month ago with agreement with my Psychiatrist I have been reducing my Valproate and now am on 1 a day. My problem is that I am not sleeping very well and have had to take sleeping tablets and at times I feel very “edgy” and tense. Do you know if anyone else has or had this problem and if so, how did they cope with it? Also, I have been tearful at times. I must say my Psychiatrist was not keen for me to reduce but I pleaded with him.

I would be very grateful for any replies and help.