I take bupropion (150 mg or 100 mg per day--it's an upper, so to much makes me manic) and 300 mg gabapentin (Neurontin). The gabapentin makes me less manic. When I am to manic, it helps to cut back on my coffee intake (go from 3 cups per day to 1 cup). Exercise can help burn some of the excess energy and produces "feel good" chemicals that can help with depression. Eat healthy foods that are not processed, especially ones that have a lot of sugar. I think it is OK to occassionally eat a piece of pie or something but it is better to make it from scratch yourself (I stay away from things like Crisco) so it doesn't have a lot of preservatives and other chemicals in it. Find ways to spend less time with your mother. Stay busy while you are waiting for word about your claim---maybe long walks/bike rides/runs or try out some new recipes? Good luck--depression and mania together can be dangerous, but if you pay attention, you can manage and get through this!!!