Mental Help(Depression, etc.)?

[alessa]

A few months ago, I had severe depression and attempted suicide. I was sent to a institution where I found out I have bipolar disorder. When I get depressed, I also seem to hear voices and see some strange things. I am not taking medicines and do not want to, so is there another way to stop dealing with these mood swings that doesnt deal with meds?

[patrick h]

play music

[Ericka H]

Distraction. When you're feeling down do something that you love...try taking dance classes or something. It'll keep your mind off of things, ease stress and will be something that you enjoy doing :)

[Jett]

Keep a journal, it can be a major stress reliever to get your feelings out on paper

[tonic4268]

I have read the previous answers to your question you have gotten so far and I disagree with them. I am not a psychiatrist but the condition you are speaking of is probably biological in nature and needs to be treated biologically. I understand you not wanting to take drugs, but consider which is the greater evil: making a valiant effort to get better without drugs (which may only get you so far), or feeling a great deal better by taking drugs you didn't want to take. I understand living up to an ideal of being drug free, but I think it's more important to enjoy life and reach your potential. If meds can help you do this, I say go for it.

[jfireman476]

You can seek therapy, or look up alternative remedies, but honestly medicine is something you should consider. Bipolar and depression are not just in your mind. They are actual medical disorders, and just like other medical disorders, chemical intervention is most often required. That doesn't mean you will always be on the meds, but they are good at getting you belanced while you go through therapy to try and fix the problem. Please consider all of your options, and don't rule anything out. It's the only way to help yourself.

[alanbluecat]

Hi, glad you are looking for advice as doing nothing is not the answer.I understand why you may not want to use conventional medication - I used to have depression and went down that route first and had some horrible side effects. I then discovered that there are more natural things you can do/take which are just as effective and have fewer or no side effects.Take a look here for some ideas of things you could try - http://www.self-help-mental-health-depression.com/depression-help-self.htmlKeep an open mind and try some and I'm sure you will be pleased with the results.Good luck!