Posted by Mark H. on March 14, 2000, at 13:53:39
In reply to Re: Help! I Want to go off my meds!, posted by saint james on March 14, 2000, at 13:31:51
Cynthia, I assume you've read Kay Jamison's autobiography, which is both infuriating and fascinating at the same time, but gives great insight into the charmed life of one of manic depression's most fervent clinical compilers and victims. If not, you might want to pick up a copy. Her book outlines the reasons for -- and the costs of -- staying on your medication.
Whether to go off or stay on your medication is ultimately a spiritual issue, in my opinion, as well as a practical one. If your depressions are disabling, if your manias are expensive and destructive, then I think it makes sense to accept the limitations caused by medication. Ironically, the desire to quit your meds is sometimes an indication that they are working.
On the other hand, if your symptoms are merely embarrassing and not job-threatening, marriage-threatening, or life-threatening, then why not? What advice would you give yourself? Who depends on you? What's at risk?
I'm sorry you're suffering. I hope it changes soon.
poster:Mark H.
thread:26981
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000312/msgs/26997.html