Welcome to the forum. No one can really tell ya when the meds will kick in. Everyone is different. Could be six weeks or more. Therapeutic levels are hard to figure out without trial and error. As for normal, don't recall what that is any more. My normal is cycling. I learnt not to compare myself with others or what I thought should be normal because it plays mind games with me and I start to get in down swings (depression). I recall when I started meds I went through hell and back with hypo mania (if slept maybe hour if that for week, running, bouncing, racing thoughts, all the fun stuff). I guess I have become use to the thoughts and mind racing at this point. I could be wrong but I think most of us do to some extent. I hope you can get back to work soon. I recall when I would sit in my office and just stare with thoughts in head. Happens periodically, but not as bad. All I can say is be patient, good to your self, and follow suggestions that can be helpful. Thoughts and prayer!