I had to change my meds provider cuz he wouldn't change me from Depakote to something else. I was in a mixed state when I went in & the Depakote helped with the agitiation, but did nothing for the depression. So I "fired" him & found a new provider who specializes in bp. She really worked with me for a year to come up with a "cocktail" of 7 medications to take daily. This has worked well for me, but my husband & kids are horrified with how much medication I take. I had to add stimulants (2) to counteract the excessive daytime sleepiness caused by the other meds. I have to take a med to help me sleep (without it I'm just sleeping 3-4 hours which I found out can be really dangerous for one with bp).

Anyway, if you can function well & have a good quality of life without meds, that's great. I couldn't do it so I'm grateful for a provider who really listens to me, was patient & gave me lots of hope.--Suay