How do you afford to be bipolar?

I also set aside money with my fsa through work so I can pay the copays throughout the year without having to pull out the money right then and there. Since its pre tax out of my check I don't really notice it. Either way it all adds up when you're unstable and are adjusting medications. And I always end up running game out late summer anyway...

I do this also. I put in the max allowed, which I believe is $2400? Anyway, it does really help me out. Especially when some months are more expensive than others.

Takeshi, I don't believe medication is our only treatment option, but as one who exercises, has a deep faith, and follows most tips on how to beat depression, I find I have to resort to meds because alas it is a chemical imbalance, and no amount of healthy living is going to sort that out.
For those with the option, I have a healthcare savings account that is like a fsa except there is no limit and the money rolls over each year. I am glad for each of your input on this topic. I just hate seeing how much it costs everybody.

Thanks for your input, what I meant by 'alternatives' are of course, I implied alternative researches for recovery/healing, as well as how you see those dollar sign. No matter the bill gets bigger, you wouldn't wanna put your worth goes down with it, I'm not saying anyone's doing it, we all do each of our shares in terms of thinking/dreaming a hopeful future, then the world can accommodate us the way we are without feeling...less.

Thankfully our new insurance is $43 a month, since my husband makes so little. My copays are outrageous though. I only have a $500 out of pocket max, which I will meet when I fill my meds. Most of my meds range from $40-$160 a month. My t doesn't take insurance too so that's another $100 every time I see her. It really does add up fast.

I always go to the ER the first week in January then file the paperwork to get the visit written off. Even though the hospital writes it off it satisfies my deductible so then copays are $25. I won't accept a drug that doesn't have a generic (learned my lesson from Abilify it worked wonders for me but once the card ran out couldn't find a way to afford it). I'm supposed to have therapy 2-3 times a week but I just deal with once every two weeks. I also have $10 taken out of each check and put in some health spending account. that helps cover most of my copays.

When something happens and money gets too tight or the health account reaches $0 then I just do without treatment. I mean what else can a person do?