It's a bit different for me because I have depression and not bipolar. But I honestly feel that medication may have saved my life. I'm not sure I would have killed myself without anti-depressants, but I'm pretty sure I would be unable to hold down a job. I would be living with my parents and miserable. I know this, because it is the situation my brother is in. I started meds at 14 and will take them for the rest of my life. I am fine with this.

It does bother me when other people say anti-depressants are bad and that people should be able to cope without them. I never tell a diabetic to stop taking meds and just do diet and exercise. The fact is that for people with type 2 diabetes, diet and exercise alone is enough. For type 1, insulin is necessary. I find it similar for temporary depression and persistent clinical depression. If you're just going through a rough spot, you might be able to use other coping strategies until you feel better. But for me, I need medication.