Both stink, the med thing can be adjusted or changed, but the "natural" rapid cycling left alone I'd have to say is worse.
I had been on some mood stabilizers that made me feel more depressed and fatigued, after switching to different one, I no longer get derailed, or zombified.
That is a tough question to answer either way in all honesty, I still believe my meds are the better alternative than not taking them, in fact my dosage was decreased a while ago and I still feel fine, the pdoc was happy to see this.
Cycling can really suck, I know.
I wish you lots of luck with this, like I tell everyone, just never give up.

Sincerely,
DE