Before I post, please understand that this is just my opinion. I am not a doctor.

I think most doctors would tell you that it is not possible to cope without meds. But, we'd expect that response from them anyway.

I think it is possible to cope without meds, but you have to be really strong willed and in a good place mentally. What I mean is - you'd have to follow a rather structured life and be lucky enough not to suffer from other mental issues like OCD, anxiety, etc.

Personally, I have tried the no medicine route and it didn't work for me. I tend to deal with my stress poorly. Once I have a continuous period of "high" stress, the mood episodes come on.

That's interesting that you have been healthy for a number of years without meds. Lucky you!