Lobo....I just wanted to post this brief little part from the NYTimes article that HistoryTeach gave us a link to in another thread..
Complications
Stopping or improperly taking medication can lead to symptoms coming back and the following complications:
* Alcohol and/or drug abuse may be used as a strategy to "self-medicate."
* Personal relationships, work, and finances may suffer as a result of mood swings.
* Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are a very real complication of bipolar disorder.
This illness is challenging to treat. Patients and their friends and family must be aware of the risks of neglecting to treat bipolar disorder.
(full article:
Bipolar Disorder - Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment of Bipolar Disorder - NY Times Health Information )