Dr. Annemarie Russell, MD

When I was a patient with Dr. Russel, I was dealing with severe bipolar 1. I was given shots of Ivega Sustenna. When I was upset about the 25 pounds I had gained, Dr. Russel told me I had REGRESSED & prescribed me a higher dose in tablet form, along with an anti-depressent. I was just feeling "human emotions" and her response was "more meds!' Not only had I gained the weight, but looked like a zombie for my daughter's wedding. People remarked how SCARY I looked and I have no memory of the event. I had a wear a huge dress, while my size 2 "mother of the bride dress" hung in my closet. Thankfully, 2 years later, I saw a new practitioner and was put on Lamictal . I recreated a life for myself.. People I knew would see me and remark "you are alive", "you're bright", you've changed, "you look human again". I was able to feel emotions, enjoy life and have friends again. This painful episode of my life has haunted me for years!