There have been many discussions here about lithium...like any other drug, some folks do well with it and some do not. Regardless of opinions, repeated studies have shown lithium to be the most effective drug for mood stabilization, particularly mania. It is, hands down, the first-line treatment for bipolar. Zyprexa is an anti-psychotic used to keep the lid on severe mania. From your description of your symptoms, these drugs sound like a reasonable place to begin your treatment.

Remember that the treatment of bipolar is a process, not an event. Things can change over time, and probably will. Learn as much about the drugs you take as you can, and if you start to have unacceptable side effects, call you pdoc immediately. Learning about your condition is extremely important. Rose has a great list of books posted in the stickies at the top of the forum, it's a great place to start.

Also, I highly recommend that you find a support group...this can be a HUGE help. It's great to be able to talk about this stuff with people who have been there, who understand. You'll also be able to connect with other resources in your community. Try these websites: www.nami.org or www.DBSAlliance.org . They sponsor hundreds of groups nationwide, there is almost certainly one near you.

I hope things go well for you. This is a difficult condition to treat, but with knowledge and support, things can get better.