Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi
Psychiatry
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have tried antidepressants before for my severe anxiety and depression. However, I became bipolar on them. I am not sure if I am bipolar. However, I have never had mania or hypomania. I am currently on lithium carbonate, but I only take from 100 to 200 mg, and I just started today. I felt a little bit wired, and I still vomited and gagged because of the side effect of my severe anxiety. Does it take a long time for lithium to start working? Will my anxiety go away on this medication? Also, I will take a tiny bit of the anti-depressant Lexapro. I believe I am taking only 1/8 to 1/4 of that medication. I have been taking it for one or two days only, and I feel pretty good about it in the middle of the day. However, I am afraid it might make me bipolar again, but the question that I have is, will lithium stabilize that crazy mood from the antidepressants that I might get?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Thank you for taking help from a psychiatrist.
I can understand your situation.
You may have bipolar depression disorder. There is non-pharmacological management for it. You should try to follow the below guidelines to deal with it as it will help you:
- Exercise daily for 30 to 45 minutes, like at least going for a walk.
- Do meditation for 20 minutes daily. Just sit in one place in a comfortable position and try to concentrate on your normal breathing. Do not stop or force yourself to stop your thoughts. Just let it be. It will help you to deal with your mood swings.
- Eat healthy home-cooked foods, and avoid junk foods. You must drink enough water. You should spend quality time with friends and family daily or do video calls if you are living away from your family.
- Spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills like language or musical instruments.
- Sleep enough for seven to eight hours daily.
- You must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.
- Live your life, do not just spend it. Be bold and confident.
- Lithium will stabilize your mood. It is one of the best mood stabilizers. You should continue it. It will take four weeks for full effect. You should ask your psychiatrist to monitor serum lithium levels in your blood.
- Keep yourself hydrated enough.
I hope that you get your answer.
Please, let me know if you want some help.
Thank you.
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Psychiatry
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