Hey Sherryanne! Just read the entire thread...WOW!
I, too, am rather interested in what would work best for BPD. Although I respect everyone's individual decision whether or not to take meds, what ones, and in whatever combination (in most cases - some people really do need to take medication!), I wonder why no one has asked you WHY you are being pressured to stop taking meds? And how do you feel about this?
Personally, if the meds help you and the benefits outweigh the risks insofar as health concerns go, then take them. If they have no effect, then don't. I know, sometimes, I don't notice all the benefits and downsides until I have actually stopped the meds. If I feel myself falling, then I may want to restart the same med or something different.
Meds are an integral part of my overall pursuit for some semblance of emotional balance. Therapies have only helped me so much, too. Both together have given me an even greater edge. One has to be comfortable with the use or non-use of meds in their quest for help with their illness(es).
What concerns me is that YOU are not too sure of your emotional state. Is this because you stopped taking this med? Is it because you are being pressured and are feeling uncomfortable with this fact? Are you afraid?
Most times, there is a period of adjustment when going off meds, even dealing with the fear of "going solo" and relying entirely on your own knowledge and experience (afterall, being a borderline includes being codependent, even if it is to psych drugs) which may be a bit of a setback for you for a time.
Trust yourself! And make decisions for yourself! Family seems to be pressuring you; professionals will advise you according to their field of expertise, like Doc here (which I appreciate, snooty or otherwise
), but ultimately, it comes down to HOW YOU FEEL!!!
You have only been off all meds for about a month, right? Are you really feeling ok? Go by that and nothing else! Don't be afraid to try to go off meds (no one wants to have to be on meds forever) especially if you, yourself have made good strides in learning to live with your illness.
I gotta ask again, though, why the pressure?
Altered State