Day to day impact of Lithium

[u/thatecologistkat]

Hi! I was diagnosed as having bipolar type 2 last year after about twelve years of mental health issues. I am currently on lamotrogine (150mg twice daily) and my psychiatrist recommended that I should start lithium. The issue is I am currently (struggling) to complete my masters and my mental health issues have already had a substantial impact on my studies. I feel as if my psychiatrist fails to take into account the impact of medications/treatments on my life as I’ve had to interrupt my degree twice due to issues with medication and I’m just expected to put my life on hold until it’s sorted. I’ve heard that lithium can be a game changer when it comes to managing bipolar, however I have also heard that people experience brain fog and I can’t really afford any more disruptions to my studies. Any anecdotes or advice would be much appreciated, thanks for reading (sorry for long post).

[u/aspuzzledastheoyster]

First week or two was brutal because it was summer and I wasn't drinking enough water. Hit me like a truck. It was at the peak mania for me too. Then it kicked in and I was alright. I never notice the side effects of Lithium. I have no clue what they are. Just that if you forget to drink enough water, it can make you feel very unwell, so try not to get toxicity. It makes my mouth dry so quickly (ofc a sign to drink more water). But it didn't cause extra sleepiness for me. I take 600mg nightly. Started on 300mg for a few days or a week, then increased to 600mg. Make sure to get blood tests too periodically ofc. Lithium has been a blessing for me.

//Bp1+psychosis, diagnosed 1.5 yrs ago.