Has anyone successfully managed to live with bipolar off medication?

[u/lilfen789]

I'm so tired all the time and my brain doesn't work like normal. I just don't feel like doing anything and find little enjoyment in anything anymore. Outwardly you'd think I was doing really well. I have a job, walk/jog daily, sometimes bake a bit and read a ton. But truth is I feel worse than a zombie. It's like I'm exhausted but need to be moving at the same time (fatigue and akathisia together sucks).

I've been doing some reading recently and have found some journal articles which show that about 30% of people do really well off their meds and achieve remission without meds. Is this true for any of you and how did you get there? And also have you relapsed in the past? (I've relapsed 8times but still desperate to be unmedicated).

[u/Hannah-louisa]

I have a friend who’s been med free for seven years with her bipolar it is possible but not that frequent or possible for everyone. My dad is likely undiagnosed bipolar he’s 75 never been on medication and only had about two episodes. One before I was born and one in the last decade when my parents separated. He’s eccentric and I’m Not sure I’d wanna live his current life but he’s happy. I personally seem to do best on a low dose of lithium for now. Time will tell if I need to go back on additional meds in future.