"i&#039;ve suffered with undiagnosed bipolar 2 for almost 3 decades. for almost 20 years i was on various antidepressants that didn&#039;t work, and made my depression worsen.

my primary doctor suggested i see a psychiatrist for my lingering depression. due to the stigma of mental illness, i put it off, but finally saw a psychiatrist.  she diagnosed my condition,  and i started a low, 25 mg dosage of lamotrigine. my dosage will slowly increase over the next 6 months to a year. the first time i entered the psychiatrist&#039;s office, i was filled with melancholy and regret.  my first follow up visit to the psychiatrist, i was filled with hope and resilience."