Recently diagnosed

Hi..I am new at this so please forgive me if I just ramble on...I was recently diagnosed with Bipolar disorder about 3 weeks ago after 12 years of trying to get different doctors to listen to me when I told them every other med they put me on never worked. I started Lithium and I am also on a sleeping pill and Effexor XR. I feel like crap! My energy level is just about completely gone. The psych doc tells me to exercise to help me feel better but how do I do that when I can't get my butt of the couch?! I feel like one of those people in the movies that is sitting still while everyone is running around them at 100 miles per hour. My husband has been great but who knows how much more he can take? My biggest fear is not being able hide from my kids anymore because it is exhausting!! I feel so alone....is there anyone out there who has so advice or words of wisdom about a better to cope with this illness. Anything would be much appreciated!

 

~Trish

mommasox,  You didn't say how long you've been on the Lithium and Effexor.  If it hasn't been 4-6 weeks, it's too soon to see results in bringing your moods under control.  I am also on both, I've been on Lithium for 15 years.  I know how this disease plays with your mind.  Try to give yourself a goal of on thing to get done every day.  Even something small, like feeding and petting the dog.  As time goes on, you will be able to expand on this and it will help your mood.  And if your kids are in grade school or better, let them know you just don't feel good but you are working on getting better.  They can take it if you let them in.  Good luck, chesswoman