Q:
I am currently taking Lithium to deal with Bi-Polar II disorder, however it makes me feel like a zombie and this is starting to effect most things I do, especially school and my once physically active lifestyle. I wake up in the morning feeling like I slept for a few minutes (when it's been 6-8 hours) and even with energy supplements I just sort of float through the day. Black tea and coffee get me going for maybe an hour and energy drinks rile me up for not much more. I told my doctor about this and he has started me on Lamictal, however it takes a good month before it kicks in and I want to get out of this slump sooner than later. Is there anything I can do to make it through the day without hooking up an IV of Red Bull directly to my heart? I'm not looking for the high caffeine used to get me during my manic episodes, just something to keep me on point.
A:
Transition between medications can be a difficult time and it is important that you talk with your physician about the struggle you are having with energy. It will be better on the lamictal but perhaps not for another 4 weeks.
Self medicating with caffeine or other stimulants can actually cause more problems with mood and energy stabilization.
A good website discussing lifestyle management of Bipolar II disorder is www.psycheducation.org particularly emphasizing the benefits of light therapy and exercise.
~The Doc
