Hi everyone. I am new here. I was diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder (what its called here in the UK) with hypomania and mixed states back in May this year. I am reviewed monthly under a pscyhiatrists staff doctor for my medication. I started on Depakote 750mg daily with 50mg Sertraline and have kept with this dose.

I started psychotherapy 3 weeks ago and its all pretty painful going back in my past, lots of abuse etc. but even prior to this I was feeling pretty low again, but now feel even worse. I did expect that maybe I would feel like this in therapy initially anyway.

I think maybe my meds are not right for me, although Depakote seemed fine initially - maybe I need the dose changed. I have read so much about lithium and it sounds better for depression (if I could get off Sertraline and onto this maybe, I dont know).

I was immediately taken off 75mg Effexor when I was in the manic phase as they said it was a major trigger.

I am also going through a tremendous amount of stress right now and feel a lot of anxiety. I have found out my neice has also been abused and its very close to home for me. I can't deal with it and can't help her, she is 12 years old and wants to live with us, but feel so torn and my family are hell to be around.

I would appreciate some help, with thanks.