I was diagnosed with BP 11 years ago. There have been times that I have gone off my meds due to unbearable side effects (Ages ago, before I had a psychiatrist, my family doctor put me on Zyprexa. I gained 30 lbs in 1 month. Not knowing what med was causing the weight gain made me quit everything cold turkey. It was a stupid move because I ended up hospitalized) I have been med free for 4 years now. I hate feeling drugged up all the time. It's almost as if I can feel the meds flowing through my body. I also hate not being able to FEEL. I dont feel "normal" when I don't have the highs and lows. I'm in a place right now that I'm really happy. I'm content with life and have a wonderfully supportive fiancé. I don't think I could be med free if I was in a different place in my life. I'd be interested in learning about alternatives to medication, too! Most doctors (At least all the ones ive had) are resistant to the idea of someone with BP going off meds. It sounds bad, and I know that they are the professionals, but I know ME best. If that makes me non compliant then so be it. They AREN'T living with BP. I am. I wish you lots of luck and hope you find the answers you seek! *hugs*