As someone who was always resistant to taking medications & pills (I don't even take a simple Tylenol for a headache or cramps), I've often asked myself this question numerous times. I guess it comes down to the knowledge that you would mostly likely be dead (from extreme depression / suicidal) without the meds. It's a question of choosing between living with meds despite side effects and other possible future implications and living without meds which could worsen your depression / mental illness and possibly cause a fatal consequence. I figure that it's worth it if I'm happy and stable in the here and now and I'll deal with the future and possible implications when I have to. For now, I'll just live in the present and hope for the best.