Darkeyes - I see lithium as blocking the extent to which the body is able to become manic, while at the same not allowing one to drop too low .... within reason. In other words, lithium cuts off the highes and the lows, thus stabilizing mood.

This concept must also be tempered by the fact that break-through mania &/or depression can happen no matter how well one's mania/depression controlled by medication. It can just happen.

Blood levels. in themselves, are only indicators. They are a range (eg. 0.8 - 1.2 ; or something like that) that provide prophylaxis against another episode in most people. Some people do respond to blood levels of lithiun lower than 0.8, but most people will show signs of toxicity at levels over 1.2 (sometimes toxicity is seen at lower levels, as well).

You and your doc must tinker with your dose over the next couple of months to find what "feels right" for you.

Good luck! - Cam

<font color=orange>"Sometimes you may be shown the light in the strangest of places, if you look at it right"
- Robert Hunter</font color=orange>