It is just a sad fact of life for Bipolars. We need our meds. We can sometimes go without for a while, but eventually an episode will occur and they get so bad that often, without meds and therapy, we attempt and/or suicide.

No one likes taking meds and having to go to the doc all the time for the rest of ones life. It is difficult to find the right combo of meds. They take a long time to start working. The side effects suck. It is a mess.

But as the alternative is suffering, not being able to function socially and at work and often death, meds and therapy are a good option.

Best Wishes for your friend and it is very wonderful of you to be such a good friend to her.