Do I have to see a therapist?

Question

I feel better after medication for anxiety/depression/bipolar II but I have never seen a therapist because of money. Maybe I can be ok without my meds. What to do?

I have been feeling much better because I have been opening up with friends again. The meds are helping but I don't want to be dependant on them.
Plus sometimes I feel too good or too wierd sometimes, just not depressed at all. It just doesn't feel natural.

Awesome advice thanks everyone!!!

Answer 1

I would have to say that if you are on medication for any disorder of that nature, do NOT go off without doctor consent...

I would also say yes, you should see a therapist... if you have noticed the difference yourself with taking meds..it would probably be helpful to you to find out what might be on your mind.. the issues leading to the need of meds at all.. sometimes the meds help... but they never "cure" and possibly you would be bale to go off meds..

money is one that affects all... the hospital near you will have a mental health dept. a community center... not sure what they would call it... those accept all insurances (usually) and if you do not have insurance they offer sliding scale fees and payments as well.... you have to talk to them ahead of time though...

you would go to the doctor if there was a problem with your heart... or if you suspected it, true? then why would you ignore another major organ... your brain.... linked to the emotions.. thoughts... stresses... it would only trickle down and affect the rest of your health negatively... which is why I say yes.. go see a therapist....

hope I have been able to help
good luck
good health

edit:

I see you added on to the description... I do NOT think you should go off meds, you do not say you have bi-polar... just that it is a med used for a few different things... whether it is bi-polar or one of the others.. or even something completely different.... if the medicine you are on helps even some but you feel "different" at times....
A) stay on
B) talk to the dr./a therapist to determine the correct dosage or even changing it

where medicines are concerned you should never take yourself off them... it really could cause depression, anxiety, or worse.. without realizing that you are slipping from reality, you might lose yourself... and you are far to important to this world to lose.... see a doctor...
oh, also most hospitals have a free clinic for therapists as well.. longer wait time.. but no cost?

Answer 2

Make sure you stay on your meds unless a doctor advises you differently. A lot of people with the same condition as you feel better (because of the meds) and then stop taking the meds only to find they slip back to feeling not good. Stay on the meds at all costs as it will always ensure you feel good. in regards to the therapist, not everyone needs them and if you can't afford one then why go there. Sometimes a chat over a coffee with a trusted friend can be more beneficial. Good luck and know that you are not alone.

Answer 3

Do not just stop your meds! When you suddenly stop taking meds you can have a very sever increase in depression/anxiety. This can lead to suicidal thoughts(even if you have never been suicidal before). Consult your doctor. If money is the main issue look into programs to help. Many areas have income based mental health facilities, and allot of drug companies(if you contact them directly, or through PPA partnership for prescription assistance) can give meds at a greatly reduced cost and have them delivered to you at home. Seeing a therapist can be helpful to some and if there is any way for you to find a program that will work with you financially I highly encourage you to try it out.

Answer 4

If you are bipolar then you must not come off your medication, and a therapist MAY help, but your condition is chemical. If you are depressed as such then yes therapy will help, but don't come off your medication without consulting your doctor. If you do the symptoms may come back, and you may get side effects. If you are in United Kingdom then you can get free therapy from your local "Mind", in phone directory. It is also free if you are referred by your doctor.

Answer 5

A lot of therapists will see you using a sliding scale. That means you would pay less than their usual rate. Check in you area for free counseling or call and ask about a sliding scale. You will probably find someone willing to help you out.

Answer 6

no you have to take your medicine,these doctors give them to you for a reason!your suppose to see a therapist as well, it comes with your well being I'm sure there is places in your town that will help you with your meds.like in my town you can go to a place called st.martins they give you a voucher to help with the price of medications as well as health centers to get you the kind of treatment you need,for very little money you need to call or ask around get some resources. good luck and do not stop your medications!

Answer 7

consult your doc before you quit your meds....
med & therapist work well together
Do to a local mental Health Place , see if they cant help you out a bit . My doc is great , he will just talk to me about my life & my depression & he will tell me I need to have goals & ect.... Sooooo Maybe find a good doc that you can just talk to that seems like they care . :)

Answer 8

See your doctor and ask whether a referral for counselling will eliminate its cost to you, but don't give up the medication; reduce it slowly, under medical advice, and practice daily for 20 mins, and whenever you feel the need, the meditation technique at http://www.healthyplace.com/communities/ Also see http://www.mentalhealth.com/book/p40-ma01.html (ma01.html)

Answer 9

Continue your medication!!!
Look for free resources in your area for help, or ask the doctor who gaveyou the prescription for advice on seeking help.
Your conditions are caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. You need the medication to help you keep straight. Please don't stop it.