Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 2/9/2010

Question
Well this is sort of hard for me to put into words. See I was diagnosed with Bipoalr Disorder but in my case it's possible that it's heriditary as my dad has it as well. My problem is I have a massive ego. I don't want to be a bother to others but I just don't see myself taking medication. I'm an anarchist and to me that's a form of control. My question being is there any thing I can do so I won't be you know a dick and actually take that abilify stuff that dad takes? I mean like any activities or perhaps some saying I could tell myself?

Answer
Alex:

I honestly don't know exactly what will work for you in order to convince you to take medication, but it may help if you keep this in mind--bipolar disorder is a medical condition.  If your thyroid was causing you to be ill, you would take the medication to help it.  If you were diabetic, you would take insulin to help.  Bipolar disorder is absolutely the same and can be just as dangerous if left unchecked.  If you need further incentive, ask yourself what you would tell your own child if you knew they were in danger of pain and suffering from bipolar disorder?  Would you tell them to just deal with it--or help them get medication that would enable them to live a full and happy life?  Medication actually gives you greater control.  By allowing the chemicals to rage at will, creating mood swings that you have no control over, you give the disorder control.  By taking medication, you are in control of what happens, not the disorder.  I hope this helps.
                            Joyce A. Anthony