I have bipolar and have been treated with Lithium for 15 years. Well, yesterday I found out I have stage 3 kidney failure. My psychiatrist did a routine blood test and discovered it. He said he'd have me see my regular doctor tomorrow, and discuss the solution, since I am also diabetic it complicates everything. My psychiatrist said he'll probably have to take me off of Lithium because my lithium levels are increasing in my blood stream.

I'm frightened and don't know exactly what to think next. I'll follow doctors' orders, but I am very frightened about the results.