I'd appreciate any input on any of my questions.

1. I've been on lithium for about 3 months now. My next app. is this Thursday. I read online that you have to have regular blood tests when taking lithium, but my doctor hasn't even mentioned this yet. If he doesn't mention it this Thursday, what should I do?

Ask directly about this, it is important. If your Pdoc doesn't think so check around for a different Pdoc.

2. I've been on Olanzapine for about a month now. I wanted to know everyone's experiences with it, and if it worked for them.


3. I've been in a really bad place lately and worried about a bunch of stuff. When/can your psychiatrist recommend going into a hospital? It's one of my biggest fears... I don't have to if it's not voluntary, right? ....

A Pdoc can recommend hospitalization but unless they think you are going to harm yourself or another and you refuse to go voluntarily they won't force you.

4. How long does it usually take to get on the right combination of meds? I hate being put on something new and not knowing how it's going to affect me.

It's frustrating, and it's different for everybody. There's no answer to how long it will take.

5. Once I do actually have the right combination of medications and seem to be in a good place. how often do I have to have doctor appointments?

It depends on where you live, your insurance coverage and your Pdoc.

6. Even if I'm on all the right meds, is there still a chance for a manic/depressive episode? What do I do if that happens?

Yes there's always a chance. You can reduce the likelyhood of episodes by getting a healthy lifestyle. Eating healthy foods, excercise and a regular sleeping pattern.

7. Lastly!! All of this began in 2011, when I was still in high school. I'm 21 now and have never had a job or gone to college. I still don't have a license either. Anyone else have the same situation as me? I do still want to go to college when I'm able to.
Would it be weird being a 22 year old freshman in college? Am I still eligible for scholarships/grants if I'm so far past high school?

Yes you are eligible for many types of scholarships, there are books of scholarships on college campuses and online. There may be some out there where you must have an MI to apply, or you must be out of school for so many years or you must be Irish or Native American others are more general. But there are thousands of possible scholarships to cover every imaginable possibly. Pell grants don't care about age only income. Never has there been a better time to have a normal life with a Mental illness. The ADA laws and advances in knowledge have paved the way to jobs and college degrees.

Thanks everyone. I'm glad I finally have somewhere to rant and ask all of my questions.