Follow-Up:
I too suffer from depression caused by bipolar disorder. I am 52 years old and have suffered with depression since I was in my early teens. Have been so depressed at times, suicide seemed like the only answer. About 8 years ago, I finally was diagnosed as bipolar by a wonderful and caring Psychiatrist who has dilligently tried various treatments for me until about 6 years ago when I became stable. Now through medication, I live life on an even keel instead of the roller coaster ride of extreme highs and extrem lows that my life had been before. Without the medication and the kind, understanding treatment of my Psychiatrist, I do not feel that I would have made it. Now I have finished my college degree, will be graduating with my Master's degree in May and plan to work on my Ph.D. This would not have ever been possible without the diagnosis and treatment. I am taking Depakote, Effexor, Trazadone, and Animi-3 vitamin. I also take Alprazolam only at times when I am feeling extremely anxious or nervous. Good luck and please seek treatment, depression is a serious illness and affects other parts of your body as well.