Posted by mbluett on July 24, 2003, at 11:36:50
In reply to Re: Mild Bipolar - moodstabl-- lamictal, posted by Dali on July 23, 2003, at 13:34:46
Hi there,
I just wanted to give you some positive thoughts on your situation. I am a 28 year old male with BP II. I have also used and abused just about every substance on this planet. I have finally settled with Lamictal as my No.1 pharm. I also take Lexapro for the depression. I used to use Effexor, but the benefits outweighed the side effects. Lamictal keeps me stable and has a very positive effect on me cognitively. I can now focus on tasks and my memory has improved. I have also had a very unsettled life until 2 years ago when I found the right medical help and medication. I fully understand your concern about the 'self' part that you mention (creativity/intellect/spirituality). It seems a contradiction in terms of personal evolution that we should need medication to progress or to live a 'normal' life. I have discontinued and restarted medications many times because of this internal turmoil. I have finally come to realise that life changing decisions and personal progress are best made from a stable mind. If medication provides that stability, so be it! I would encourage you continue with the Lamictal. It is a very good mood stabiliser and anti-depressant. I believe that once it starts working for you, you will be able to drop the Focalin. Once last thing. Stability came as a shock to me, as if I still craved the highs of mania! I hope this helps.
Love and peace.
poster:mbluett
thread:9730
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030723/msgs/244863.html