More tedious war stories. No one talked about helping fellow patients into recovery. No one talked about anything new.

They’re all living in the past, I told Paul, once we were back in the car. All they are capable of is waving signs, shouting at public meetings, saying no, and fighting losing battles, all while pretending to represent all of us. Believe it or not, the State of California has actually co-opted them into some kind of quasi-government agency. The only explanation that makes sense is that this sorry set of losers with no original ideas can be much more easily ignored than some forward thinkers who might actually force government bureaucrats to earn their salaries.

The antipsychiatry movement came of age during the bad old days. They had their time and place. They served their purpose. Their membership is aging, and there is a shortage of young people to step into their shoes. Thank heaven. It won’t be long till antipsychiatry goes the way of the 60s. Only this time, no one will be longing for its return.

Learn more about bipolar disorder and share your thoughts in the message boards.