It has been used since the 1960's to treat mania and there are stories of indian tribes sending "disturbed people" to lithium hot springs way before that. I take 900 mg a day and honestly I don't notice a difference till I go off it (then **** gets cra cra). So yes for me it works. There is also literature out there that it has neural protective side effects which makes me feel a little better. There is the consistent blood test to check for liver, kidney, and thyroid function which sucks but could be worst.