Effexor is an evil drug for me. It was the very first antidepressant I tried about 7 years ago before being diagnosed BP. It sent me into a delusional and paranoid psychotic mixed episode. I didn't leave my apartment for 4 months, and I never opened the blinds- I lived in total darkness. When I did go out I heard people calling my name, if I was getting food at the grocery store (at night) I would hear my name being called on the intercom type thing.

Coming off it was the worst for me- the brain zaps! It took over two years for them to completely go away. And my lady bits went numb, it took 5 looooong years to be able to orgasm again.

I would advise you keep a journal in the meantime of how you're feeling if anything just to be able to monitor your mood to see if it's going up, because it can come quickly but subtly.

Oh, and Effexor comes up as PCP on a piss test. Just a warning, make sure you disclose what meds you're on if you'll be taking one anytime.

Lithium is generally pretty good and works quickly once the dose gets at the right levels, it's one of the only meds that actually helps with suicidal ideations/thoughts/compulsions. Hopefully it kicks in soon for you.