oh no. Anti-depressants and bipolar are not a great mix. That is why they are taken in conjunction with a mood-stabilzer. Alone they can create a state of mania or even cause a very extreme state of anxiety. Lithium has been long used as a mood stabilizer. Frankly it has been used this long and is the go-to medication because it works.

Personally I try to avoid using 'Dr Google' to diagnose my problems or 'self prescribe' medications. My doctors know and can assess me with their years of experience far better than I can with a ten minute read.

But, I do know my own body and when things arent't right. That is why I am in constant communication with my doctors.

As such my recommendation to you is to give what your psychiatrist is prescribing a try and communicate what you experience - including the positive.

I ask, what side effects are you worried about?