I think it's impossible to say. Everyone's MI operates a bit differently, different situations will be, well, different. And for different people, even different coping mechanisms will be more or less effective.

In my opinion I think it's good to make a deal with yourself upfront. Like you can try to manage or curb an episode without medication, but you should have a firm list of signs that it's time to get professional help. That way you can try, but know when/if it's time to call it and to then have a plan to follow.

For me personally my signs that it's time to get back on medication are:

- Suicidal or Homicidal Ideation
- Prolonged Sleep-Deprivation
- Psychosis (of any kind or severity level)
- Anxiety Severe Enough To Render Me Incapable Of Everyday Functioning