Hi Raspberry,

I am sorry you are having such a difficult time.
My heart goes out to you.

Lots of good suggestions!

Please be careful with valerian, as a large percentage of ppl have a "paradoxical reaction," feeling increased anxiety, increased agitation.

Personally, I would go "all out" for stabilization and later consider augmenting with herbs/supplements. There is research-based evidence showing some agents help when added to meds. It's critical to get the meds in place when feeling suicidal.

Yes, some of the newer APs are very expensive. I had to use my insurance and a manufacturer's discount and the co-pay for just thirty tabs of lowest dose Latuda was still over fifty dollars. My pdoc knew it was expensive, but he did not know how expensive. He is getting me some free samples to help out.

Bizi and others mentioned good strategies. We can go back to a different AP which was helpful, even if not an ideal drug, whether generic Geodon or even Haldol, at least until we have stabilization. It's critical to reach a point of stabilization.

An IOP program is another good suggestion, if it's available and you can do it. Many are affiliated with hospitals, which also offer some funding assistance through the patient financial aid department. I have had friends go through 6 week intensive programs with little to no co-pay when they qualify for patient assistance through the hospital.

I hope your pdoc can help you immediately.

Please keep us posted.

We are here for you!

WC