I agree with confused to not get too disappointed if it doesn't go exactly as planned. To that I would add tho that there is no end point.. it's not like if it doesn't go as planned the goal has to change, you just continue to work towards what you want. So I think the idea of getting off them all together is ok on that end.

Sounds like a good start, I think the idea of changing behavior, thinking patterns, core beliefs about the world and yourself, and healthy perspective is pretty vital to being medication free, as well as on meds since the meds do not seem to work alone just fine for barely anyone. I think learning basically how to manage life, we all need it.. can't go wrong with that.

Since I have done this in the past I guess I would say... make the work fun and engaging. It is a lot of work, but if you approach it with interest, be creative and have fun with it, see it as a positive thing, the work will be challenging and good at the same time.

I didn't try acupuncture, or herbs so I can't add much to that. I used yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and a lot of healing and changing my perspective, and thought processes. It has had a huge effect on my moods and emotions. Along with diet and other lifestyle changes. I was thinking about this the other day.. I have not had anything that would qualify as a mood episode since September last year, when I got over that one is when I got off the meds. Before that it was constant, I never had stability for more than a month here or there. So I would say it does seem to be working pretty well for me.

Meds might be cheaper, but nasty and dangerous side effects come with a price as well. The studies of meds and effectiveness are actually pretty telling if you look closely.