Lithium for Suicidal Ideation?

[bruised_reed]

I have just learned that Lithium has helped A LOT of chronically suicidal people. After another failed attempt last night and spending the entire day crying and severe anxiety, I am desperate for even a tiny chance at recovery. Has Lithium helped anyone here?

Thanks

 

[peacebenow]

I have just learned that Lithium has helped A LOT of chronically suicidal people. After another failed attempt last night and spending the entire day crying and severe anxiety, I am desperate for even a tiny chance at recovery. Has Lithium helped anyone here?

Thanks

I don't have experience with it. I hope that you get some insight from others. keep breathing.

 

[MissAbyss]

If you are that chronically suicidal, and made a failed attempt just yesterday, then you don't have much left to lose, right? I would say, give it a try. This site features reviews/experiences from people who use Lithium, you can also look at other medications. Maybe it will give you some reassurance. Wishing you strength and better days ahead. ️

https://www.drugs.com/comments/lithium/

 

[nitrogenous]

I am on Lithium and have tried both the immediate release and extended release of it. For me, I don't really substantially notice any help in terms of suicidality, but it did stop me from having hypomania episodes until it reappeared again last week, out of the blue. My suicidality does stem from lots of practical things as well though, so it is understandable that my suicidality didn't just disappear. In saying that, I've been attempt-free since on it (albeit very close several times). I would say that it might be a combination of the meds that made me feel less impulsive at times or the fact that I do try and be more proactive in reaching out for help and advocating for myself. I apologise in advance if this is not the answer you're looking for, I hope you will get the help you need

 

[timf]

From Wikipedia

In 1948, John Cade discovered the anti-manic effects of lithium ions.[8] This finding led to lithium carbonate's use as a psychiatric medication to treat mania, the elevated phase of bipolar disorder. Mogens Schou and others continued Cade's research.[9] They found that lithium is effective against both mania and depression, and has preventative effects.[10]

Lithium is also unique among medications in that it has anti-suicide properties in people with bipolar disorder or recurrent depression. It has been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of suicide by 87% in clinical trials.[11][12] In addition to its effects on suicide, lithium also reduces the risk of death from all causes in people with mood disorders.[13]

Prescription lithium carbonate from a pharmacy is suitable for use as medicine in humans but industrial lithium carbonate is not since it may contain unsafe levels of toxic heavy metals or other toxicants. After ingestion, lithium carbonate is dissociated into pharmacologically active lithium ions (Li+) and (non-therapeutic) carbonate, with 300 mg of lithium carbonate containing approximately 8 mEq (8 mmol) of lithium ion.[14] The usual dosage of lithium is 600-900 mg/day for the maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder.[15]

Here is a link to a National Institute of Health survey of low dosage Lithium use

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Here is a video about Lithium Orotate specifically



As I understand it prescription Lithium Carbonate is tricky to get the right dosage. The lower dosage Lithium like Orotate are safer and available over the counter.

As a general rule when trying a drug try a very small dose first to make sure there is no negative reaction. It may not be a bad idea to first try something with someone else present so that if there is a bad reaction, they can get you help.