Anybody Using Lithium for Regular Depression (Not Bipolar)

Hi to everyone. Been off the boards for a while because I have been very sick physically - 2 ER trips in less than a week. One was because of a kidney stone, and the other was due to a serious infection of the colon. But to get back to topic - I have been on Remeron & Tofranil. Been on Remeron for 3 months, Tofranil for 1 month. Like everything else I have tried along with the Remeron, the Tofranil did not work. My doctor just called and told me he is prescribing a very low dose of Lithium for me. I feel desperately bad and need to stabilize, and he said Lithium is a mood stabilizer/anti-depressant. I have to take a very low dose because I have serious problems with metabolizing meds too quickly. I'm still researching the DNA testing for metabolic enzymes but have just run into brick walls so far. But can anybody who is suffering from "regular" depression, not bipolar disorder, tell me if you have ever taken Lithium and if you had any success? Thanks very much.

I did take lithium along with other medications for depression and anxiety. Dr. said it would provide a boost. Can't tell if it did much. I was in a very low state and about a week after starting ended up in the hospital with 6th nerve palsy. I initially thought I had too much lithium in my system but ER tests said no.

I just started lithium yesterday. I was diagnosed with depression, ptsd and anxiety 26 years ago. My diagnosis has never changed. I did really well on Zoloft for about 8 years but I believe it was because I had very little stress and had a very stable life at that time. My physical and mental health has spiraled downward, especially since 2010 and last month I finally decided to file for disability due to chronic mental health issues and spinal issues that cause physical pain. I am hoping that the lithium will keep me stable mentally. The spinal issues are all degenerative. My biggest concern isn't for me but to be able to provide a stable home for my son. He is already aware that I'm often "sick" but I don't want it to define his childhood like my mother's illness defined mine. My parents did not put me first and often put me in situations that caused me harm. I am fighting for him. My chance of happiness was lost years ago.