Can i stay clean and normal?

[believer31]

I've been diagnosed bipolar in  January 2009 after experiecing manic state. I was cured with lithium but i was not feeling well with it, i had tremors even if no overdose. So i reduced my dosis by myself telling to my doctor that i feel better that way. That was in august same year! In september it started again with hyperthymia, what was feeling great and ended up with another manic state. I did quit my job and went to Paris with very few money, without saying to anyone! I was lucky and had a great time, excally. I had running thoughts and kind of movie in my head but i still managed to act normal (a bit euphoric). Anyway, in November i ended up in hospital again and started to take haldoldepo. First month i was taking abilify as well.And just like that- no more movies in my head! Now i'm taking 025mg haldol depo every 45 days and i'm doing good. But i feel ready to stop taking it! My doctor means i shouldn't. I think that i managed some things that were a big problems in my life and maybe a cause of all that happened and that's why i think that i can make it without medications. I must also mention that i'm naturaly bright person and never had any depression. Can i make it without drugs??? I feel like i can! What do you think?

[BipolarBear75]

Well said!!!!!!!!!!!

[run4you]

I think every bipolar person has, at one point (if not more) had the idea to get off meds. The really great 'high' of bipolar is so enticing... but the crash - whether it be a high mania (like you've had twice) or a low depression is (if you're thinking rationally) not worth it.

I've NEVER heard a single story of it going well long-term.  

You have tried no meds, twice (if you consider pre-diagnosis). Both times have resulted in things that, while they turned out well - lucky for you, could have been disastrous. And next time, luck may not be in your favor.

I'm a bright person. With bipolar. All of the bipolar people I've met have been above average intelligence. One does not exclude the other. Nor does being bright mean you can outsmart bipolar.

My advice is listen to your doctor.