I was on lithium for numerous years, it's a safe medication for most people and well studied.

Yes in the beginnings there is blood work to find out what therapeutic range is going to work for you . Numerous blood tests might be needed until your on the right dosage.

You do need to increase your fluid intake.

I'm opposite of Mobiuspsych I would try lithium way before Tegretol.

Good luck finding a medication that helps improve your stability.