I totally agree Sarahsweets.

I need my psych meds and will take them for the rest of my life. I could probably "survive" without them, but I wouldn't call it living. I wouldn't be able to hold down a job. My parents would probably take me in, but I would be miserable. Why would I choose misery when I can feel better?

That said, it may depend on the causes of the illness. I truly believe my depression is mostly genetic. I have it even when there is nothing wrong in my life, and I don't have a history of past trauma. For people who have dealt with trauma, I think therapy can be just as important as meds.