>>4 >>5 >>6 You guys need to do some research. Seriously.

Natural treatments are not a drug, and will not work like one. While it is true that b vitamin levels are sometimes low or significantly low in those with Bipolar disorder, simply increasing this may not solve the individual's issues. Folic acid and other concerns are also noted among those with bipolar disorder. One may resort to simple vitamin and acid supplements if drugs for BP are having serious adverse effects, but it is recommended to try clinical medication for at least a short period of time past the initial side effect upswing.

The reason that psycs still use other medications besides lithium is because of the negative side effects that is has (both immediate and long term {such as rendering the thyroid useless}), and because lithium is not to be given to certain patients. Not only that, but lithium is active for the Mania aspect of Bp far more than the depressive lows, and can lead to continual feelings of lack of energy, depression, etc. Furthermore, lithium simply does not benefit some clients. Finally, the dosage of lithium must be extremely carefully controlled both in medication given and through one's personal habits (including diet).

"Conclusions: These results suggest that olanzapine has superior efficacy to lithium in the acute treatment of patients with bipolar mania over a 4-week period. However, adverse events were experienced by a greater number of olanzapine patients than lithium patients."

Research like that above and on anti-convulstants like Carbamazepine (Tegretol) and divalproex sodium (Depakote) are also reasons to consider giving out new medications, because they have different side effects and more efficacy for different types of BP and for different clients. The medical community is always trying to reduce side effects.

Also, 6, it doesn't matter whether or not you go to a traditional college or a non-traditional college/institution of education (this includes apprenticeships), the experience you gain there is not only necessary for success in the world if you don't have some kind of awesome personal ability and training (I can't even think of One individual who has that kind of skill. Bill Gates got his fame by ripping others off/luck. Same for Steve Jobs.), but in incredibly personally enlightening.

I initially had a negative view of college, but I now wish that I had more opportunity to have gone to college and that I had been more aware of the kinds of experiences I have now. Perhaps (or probably) I simply wasn't mature enough for college at that point.