yes, meds can affect people differently, and pdocs need to titrate Lithium slowly, Lithobid is a good choice if you can tolerate it, seems to have the least amount of side effects.
It really is not an antidepressant, it is a mood stabilizer, ideal for staving off manic episodes.
Lamictal is another mood stabilizer (anti convulsant) and tends to have an anti depressant quality besides it being a mood stabilizer, in fact it is commonly used with people having "mild" bipolar, menopausal mood swings, migraines, etc. so it is sort of like "multi purpose" med.
It is always best to talk with your pdoc, work with him and at the same time assert yourself, ask if their are alternative meds, and if you are interested in trying a new med, voice that to him or her.
I wish you lots of luck with this, I know it is not easy, but do not give up.
Please take care,
DE

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON