I don't recall who used the word "victim" in one of the posts but I really struggle with that word as it obviates responsibility. No matter the issue it is my job to find my piece of the issue and rectify it to the best of my ability.

There are chemicals in the brain that can be activated simply by getting up and doing something. The very same chemicals that medication assists with - and all psychiatric disorders are biologically based as are all wellness. The difference is in the choices we make for ourselves. And the best medicine sometimes is "Faking it till you make it" as those in AA have found as an intermediate solution.

With chronic disorders medication may be the only BASE solution - but ultimately it is the individual's responsibility to find what works in addition to the medication and then keep doing it. Mrrzy - getting off your meds was a lesson you lived not to replicate and I applaud you that lesson! And a good therapist is not one who gives you answers but one who mirrors who you are in such a way that you can see yourself in a light that facilitates recognition and hence change. I'm glad you have one of those also.

I'm not the "Famous SL" just another person who found music as a venue in which to find more life. I've written a couple of books but none that dealt with psychiatric disorders. But I have been where you were and been where you are. The thing(s) that counted the most for my sanity was, and not necessarliy in the order that worked at any particular time, my family, children, friends, musicians, music, dogs, horses, the desert, the mountains, trees, strangers, grass (the kind you walk on and that shares our breath), and this gorgeous day in paradise. Probably some I left out but you get the idea.

And I have a Navajo Brother who said the same thing about the day. It is universal. I'm glad I was part of this piece of this forum as it gave me more ideas to share with the folks who honor me with their life and an opportunity to share in the journey of change.

Have a superb day!