Depakote and depression

I'm 49yr old male just started taking Depakote, 1000mg a day. Bipolar, which I was just diagnose with. I've had depression for years, Prozac, etc the usual suspects.
I've been on Depakote 10days now, along with Cymbalta 60mg which I started 18days ago(I was on Celexa 30mg) New doc and therapist also helped. I've already taken a complete 180, and I mean within a matter of days I feel like there is hope and a future again. May be Cymbalta/Depakote combo? Whatever it is I have no complaints. I actually feel TOO GOOD? If that's my problem I have no problems. No appetite increase/hair?- hey, I'm 50yrs old, who cares...

People taking this drug for seizures are going to have very different experiences then the bipolars, I believe. Pretty much everyone has some weight gain, but not major (10-20lbs).
I was diagnosed as a rapid cycling bipolar, and before this drug, I was completely miserable. I was started on Depakote instead of Lithium due to fewer side effects, and it was a huge sucess.
Moods are stable, manic episodes are gone, sleep is stabilzed, libido is normal, depression is rare. I am 20 lbs heavier, happy, and "normal". I can't say enough good things about this drug.
Bipolars, steer away from the negative comments here and go to the bipolar support sites. You will find almost nothing but positive testimonials about this drug for our condition.

My 18 year old son is taking Depakote for the first time and I am wondering for people who have taken this what do you remember from the first time taking the medication?
I am concerned about depression, concentration and increased weight.