I was on it for a few years , its a mood stabilizer and its usually side effect free for most people. I only noticed a slight headache as the med was being titriated up.. It works more for the depressive side of Bipolar.

Just take it exactly a your pdoc prescribes to lessen the chance of SJS rash.

As for your family , well now there is just a "label" to an illness and symptoms you have battled for 10 years,now your actually going to be working to treat them more effectively. Try not to be worried about what your family thinks yep easier said that done .. I assume your adult so you can make decisions regarding your health care they can agree or disagree. Just focus on YOU feeling better. You do not have to discuss your Bipolar with anyone , it's your choice.

As for " being on meds the rest of your life"? That's not always the case , many people once they find stability and learn ways to help themselves with coping skills of all kinds , it is possible to go off meds.

Take care