Stopping the treatment of Bipolar with Lithium under Doctors advice.

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I have been taking Lithium since shortly after the birth of my daughter who is now nineteen. I was first diagnosed with postnatal depression but after recurring episodes I was diagnosed as suffering from Manic depression. I have been well now for five- eight years and have a good working relationship with my doctor. I have been treated with Lithium in variing doses but always seem to be unwell if we started to mess about with the prescription. I now take 1000mg at night. However recently my thyroid levels have changed. It has been suggested that under supervision we reduce the lithium which may help the thyroid to repair itself or take thyroxine. I am now fifty and have not gone through the change, as yet. Would I be risking another episode of depression if I stop the Lithium at this stage in my life? Bearing in mind that the start of all this was another hormone upheaval, the birth of my daughter. I am at a loss as to what to do for the best, my support net work ie family and friends are wider now, but my closest are devided. I have some time to make my decission so there is no urgency. L