As you may know, I used to take lithium to manage my bipolar illness. In the summer of 2008, my doctor switched me to Depakote due to some bladder complications.
Well, let me tell you, I love Depakote. It makes me feel NORMAL! Lithium had a completely dulling effect, but Depakote allows me to feel subtle human feelings like bewilderment and absurdity.
What do I do now that I feel normal again?
Clean out my linen closet. My husband and I used to sleep in twin beds because I had to have a completely still sleeping surface to fall asleep due to sleeplessness from bipolar illness. In the back of the linen closet, I found over a dozen twin sheet sets from our twin beds. Garage sale time!
Make Hamburger Helper. I love this stuff. My husband hates it, so I have to make it for lunch, not dinner. I’m particularly found of the cheeseburger noodle kind.
Take a cruise. This summer we’re taking a cruise. It’s the first time we’ve been alone in four years. Our relatives will take care of our little boy. And you can bet I’m packing an evening gown for the Captain’s Ball.
Get my child on the school bus. When I do this, I feel like a typical, suburban Mom. I wave to him as he leaves.
Do laundry. This will really make one feel normal. And I’ve been remembering to add the dryer softening sheets. That’s very normal.
Go to Target for shampoo. Target is a particularly normal place.
Depakote, I love you.
No longer do I feel hopeless in the shower. Can you get your mind around how important this is?
This is not to say that Depakote will work wonders for you, but if you’re in the mood to try a new med, and your doctor is on board, try this little miracle drug.
It worked for me.