Hi Jules,
I think a lot of us would say there are benefits to being bipolar, but that some would not, depending on how the disorder affects them. When I am in my hypomanic state (not as severe as mania), I can do the work of two people in half the time. At those times I have tremendous energy and creative ideas and enthusiasm. It's allowed me to accomplish a lot in my life. I am a visual artist, a painter (see my website at
ARTBYLT.COM), I have written and published twelve books, gotten a PhD in creative writing, started two businesses, etc. Of course there was the down side, too. Both those businesses eventually failed because I am bipolar.
In summary, I would not wish to live my life over without being bipolar. I think it has helped to make me who I am today, and I'm happy with that.
There are many reasons to want to stop taking medication, and drug side effects are the big one. Psychiatrists need to realize the importance of this factor and take the time to work closely with patients to change medication until the right formula is found. We are all different and react differently to drugs as well.
Good luck with your article. Where will it be printed? Let us know when it's published.
Lynne
Author of
THE BIPOLAR DEMENTIA ART CHRONICLES.
