Depakote (Epilim) was added to my meds last Nov when I was hospitalised with suicidal ideation. I was actively suicidal.
As soon as the med kicked in, my mood was normal. I have been free of suicidal ideation since.
Mixed mood is my baseline and Depakote is known for working well with mixed mood.

Side effect for me is weight gain. But that’s an individual thing. I know someone who’s been on it for 26yrs and experienced no side effects.