Hi everyone i'm new here, recently diagnosed with bi-polar after thinking i had ADD for so long(might have both). I was prescribed depakote about a week and a half ago, but still haven't taken it because i get nervous about taking psychiatric meds. I've had bad past experiences and feel i'm in an alright place right now and going to therapy. I'm worried by this diagnosis because i feel it could mean i'll never have any consistency in life, but i'm also happy that i know what's going on now. I feel mine is less extreme, the only time i've been out of control is under the influence from what i remember. I've had drug and alcohol problems, but have been clean for a little bit now and i'm hoping if i can just stay sober that i'll be able to keep this under control with therapy, exercise, good sleep, etc.

Anyway what are other people's experiences here like? Anyone been on depakote, how is it? I'm worried about the weight gain, liver problems, and lethargy. Are there people that have had success without meds? Anything you guys would like to mention i'd very much appreciate it.

Thanks