You’re completely right! Sometimes medication just doesn’t work for people, and although it can cover up the symptoms of the disorder is causes so many side effects its just not worth it. I have been though 17 medications in 5 years, trying to find something that works. Some of them helped a little, some not at all, and some had huge side effects. I gave up on treatment twice, stopped cold turkey 3 or 4 times. But over time my symptoms and problems affected my family and daily life enough to make me go back and try again. I'm at the moment on Lithium and Clonzepam and so far so good, ZERO side effects, and I feel much more stable. I cant say that this will work long term, or what will happen tomorrow. But I will say it took many years, and a ton of different medications and combinations to finally find something that seems to be helping. Without altering who I am. That’s the challenge we all face, given any disorder. You might find your disorder becoming more of a problem down the road and like me return to try different medications. But you’re not alone, and Depakote is one that has major side effects for many just so ya know. But if you feel you can handle everything solo, then more power to you. But also don’t be afraid to come back and try something else if it becomes a problem for you. Good luck, and of course we are all here to support you!