The first time and subsequent times I was on meds it was for my family. They were quick stints that didn’t last long. Now I’m on meds because off meds (even on meds) I’m paranoid and afraid. That’s no way to live. I still have times (like a lot) that I just want to dump the meds and say **** it. I’m unable to be reasoned with when manic. It’s take this OR go to the hospital and my husband has control my meds. I’m not trusted with them when manic. I’m on dissolvable medication so I just put it on my tongue and wait. Taking pills make me gag so I’m limited to what I can/willing to take. I’ve made peace with my depression for the most part. I know you’re not supposed to but it can’t hurt me. It sucks but it wont do permanent damage unless I lose my ability to logic through it. My pdoc and I play a game of medicating my most world destroying symptoms and scaring me away. My old pdoc had a deal with me that I wouldn’t stop meds without seeing him first but I skipped meds. I have a long history of non compliance. 13 years worth.

I would encourage you to have your family member find a therapist that is willing to work with them. I’m a case where therapists wont work with me without being medicated. I spend many appointments talking about meds and convincing me to keep taking my meds for the week. I’m non-compliant without therapy. Medication is scary and you don’t feel like your best self on most of them and honestly your not. Your your most stable self but a good mild hypomania is humans at their best. Unfortunately we can’t live in that state.