Stage 3a + Lithium

Hi everyone,

It's wonderful to find a community to discuss this. I have recently been diagnosed with stage 3a. It's been very confusing- first there was one abnormal blood test, then I was told it's "just a dip", then I was told that I have "a decrease in kidney function," and then poof, stage 2, stage 3a. It is really confusing. I think my doctors are good and mean well, but I wish they would just tell it like it is and let me know what to expect. How can 60% function be "robust"?

I'm wondering if my psychiatrist was negligent letting my kidneys be damaged in a way I did not expect. Shouldn't he have been more vigilant?

The biggest part is I think I should change off of lithium to another medication. This is quite scary.

I live alone and support myself. What is going to happen if I get worse? If you have a similar situation or have something to advise, I'd be so grateful.