"i was consumed with depression, anxiety, fear, rage, and compulsive behavior since i entered puberty. i was sent to psychologists who could not help me because my issues were entirely chemical. after years of failed treatment, i self-medicated with alcohol which landed me in jail. i finally went to a psychiatrist who put me on lamictal. i am a healthy, peaceful, and productive person for the first time in my life. i know i would not be here if it were not for this medication. other than severe dehydration, after 3 years i have experienced no adverse effects."