In no way am I trying to imply that it is better to be suicidal or manic than it is to gain weight. I myself take medications that cause weight gain because I need them to keep from being suicidal. I simply wanted to provide this information to parents who may be considering placing their children on a medication that they don’t really need. (I know several personally.) I would be happy to exchange links with you!

Diane, I agree 100%. One medication made me gain 25+ pounds. (I am still trying to get rid of the last 10 pounds. When you pass 30, it isn’t easy.) I didn’t stop taking the medication until it didn’t work for me anymore because I was suicidal without it and I would rather be fat than suicidal any day without hesitation. I sincerely hope that you find a medication that works for your daughter. I get frustrated with medication and I cannot imagine how difficult it is for a parent.

my youngest has only taken one medication in 6 years – risperdal. she is chunky. but i stay on top of it and really watch what she eats. it’s helped her in ways that have changed her life, so i’m glad she’s on it – chunky or not. fortunately also, her dosage has only been increased once in those six years. so, i’m feeling very confident that i made the right choice.

my other daughter, however, nothing seems to help. well, i take that back – geodon does help with her manic symptoms. however, she’s then just left feeling completely depressed and suicidal, despite antidepressants we’ve tried. it’s very frustrating. and painful. if i could find something that would really help her, i’d rather her be fat than suicidal….