I have Bipolar NOS, I think (I get mixed episodes, hypomanic and depressed episodes, and I think the beginnings of manic episodes that I get under control with medication). For me medication is a necessity. I went a long time without it and remained very suicidal and couldn't control my thoughts. Most medications don't work for me, but Zyprexa does wonders. Maybe someone with less severe bipolar could control their moods better, though...?