hi. i take it, and it helps with the (hypo)mania, calms me down, reduces agitation, etc., but I can't say it does much for the core depressive problems that pop up a lot. Since I get psychotic depression, it helps with some of the symptoms that come along with that, but the depression itself requires additional treatment (lamictal and wellbutrin, in my case).

I hope it helps you. I completely understand wanting to avoid Lithium ((I'm the same way)).