Tardive dyskinesia which appeared after three years on various drugs. My psychiatrist had told me it was rare and people only got it after many years taking these drugs - turns out neither is true.

Lithium messed up my memory and coordination in all sorts of ways. One day I couldn't remember how I usually brushed my teeth. I know it sounds ridiculous but I had to work out what to do - and my lack of coordination didn't help. I couldn't even write properly or sign my name on lithium.

Lithium and valproate made a bowel condition I suffer from much worse. I couldn't leave the house for fear I would have an accident.

Valproate made me put on a lot of weight. After coming off lithium and valproate I was so depressed I lost it again.

Venlafaxine put me into a trance-like stupor.

I have had 13 drugs in various combinations in three years. Now I don't take anything. Lot of bad effects and unfortunately nothing worked very well for me. Now I am scared to take anything else.