Product Description
Since it first appeared on bookshelves, The Bipolar Child has made an indelible mark on the field of psychiatry and has become the resource that families rely upon. Now, with more than 200,000 copies sold, the first book about early-onset bipolar disorder is completely revised and expanded.


Bipolar disorder—manic depression—was once thought to be rare in children. Now researchers are discovering not only that bipolar disorder can begin early in life, but that it is much more common than ever imagined. Yet the illness is often misdiagnosed and mistreated with medications that can exacerbate the symptoms. Why? Bipolar disorder manifests itself differently in children than in adults, and in children there is an overlap of symptoms with other childhood psychiatric disorders. As a result, these kids may be labeled with any of a number of psychiatric conditions: “ADHD,” “depression,” “oppositional defiant disorder,” “obsessive-compulsive disorder,” or “generalized anxiety disorder.” Too often they are treated with stimulants or antidepressants—medications that can actually worsen the bipolar condition.
Since the publication of its first edition, The Bipolar Child has helped many thousands of families get to the root cause of their children’s behaviors and symptoms and find what they need to know. The Papoloses comprehensively detail the diagnosis, explain how to find good treatment and medications, and advise parents about ways to advocate effectively for their children in school. In this edition, a greatly expanded education chapter describes all the changes in educational law due to the 2004 reauthorization of IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), and offers a multitude of ideas for parents and educators to help the children feel more comfortable in the academic environment. The book also contains crucial information about hospitalization, the importance of neuropsychological testing (with a recommended battery of tests), and the world of insurance. Included in these pages is information on promising new drugs, greater insight into the special concerns of teenagers, and additional sections on the impact of the illness on the family. In addition, an entirely new chapter focuses on major advances taking place in the field of molecular genetics and offers hope that researchers will better understand the illness and develop more targeted and easier-to-tolerate medicines.
The Bipolar Child is rich with the voices of parents, siblings, and the children themselves, opening up the long-closed world of the families struggling with this condition. This book has already proved to be an invaluable resource for parents whose children suffer from mood disorders, as well as for the professionals who treat and educate them, and this new edition is sure to continue to light the way.Amazon.com Review
For any caregiver experiencing life with a bipolar child,Demitri and Janice Papolos's The Bipolar Child will be anindispensable reference guide. The material is presented clearly, withlots of helpful charts and lists to aid in receiving proper diagnosis,treatment, and long-term care. All medical information is relayed withthe aim of helping parents to ensure effective treatment for theirchildren and includes journal-tracking formats to help caregiversprovide accurate information to personal physicians. Importantly, manypages are devoted to discussions about the emotional upheavals thatliving with a bipolar child can bring, and how parents and childrencan cope most effectively. The book is filled with families' storiesthat do a beautiful job providing comfort and inspiration to others. Adetailed chapter on hospitalization covers everything from insuranceto types of treatments.The authors provide excellent informationregarding improved educational practices, with step-by-stepinstructions for goal-setting with your child and communicating yourchild's needs to school personnel. The Bipolar Child is asatisfying and wise read. --Jill Lightner ... Read more

Customer Reviews (125)

Utter trite.
I work conducting mental health assessments in a children's psychiatric hospital, and it is tragic that this book is being taken to heart by anyone.I have seen over a hundred children diagnosed, and when I reviewed their histories, only about 4 of them were actually diagnosed properly.Those that were diganosed improperly most often were those with developmental disorders, abused children with post traumatic stress syndrome, and children with major depressive disorder.

Bipolar disorder involves mania or hypomania.Moody, angry children are not bipolar. Neither is a temper tantrum diagnostic of this very serious disease.Mania always involves euphoric, positive self regard.Kids with a negative, "pissy" outlook at not bipolar.neither is a kid bipolar who is sleeping 8-9 hours per day. teenagers naturally shift mood quickly, it's part of their development.Their sleep schedule also shifts, to where they get sleepy later and wake up later.

Very creative?Poor handwriting?Who comes up with this nonsense?

Leave this book on the shelf, and contact a PhD psychologist for advice. This author had committed the psychiatric equivalent of the psychic cold-call routine.Is your child every very happy?Are they very angry?Well, aren't most of them?

The answers I needed
This book finally gave us so many answers! It is reassuring to know that others are dealing with these problems and surviving! And it is nice to know what to expect .

Bipolar child
Received book in very good condition - the information was extremely helpful.Quick shipping and reasonable shipping rate.Great shopping at Amazon!

it was so helpfull to me
Book confirmed all that I saw in my child.It really made me feel that I am not alone.I thank the author greatly.

Excellent Book
This book is a must have if you are new to the Bipolar diagnosis.You will not regret this purchase.It came highly recommended to me and I want to recommend it to you!! ... Read more

Product Description
Bipolar is a condition that affects peoples? relationships with others as much as it affects their own mental state. When one person in a couple is experiencing the extreme highs and lows of a disorder like this one, it?s impossible for their partner not to feel the strain too.

Reassuring yet realistic, Dr. Bloch, Dr. Golden, and Nancy Rosenfeld explain what?s normal, what?s not, what might change, and what definitely won?t. They provide information and advice on typical troubling relationship topics, such as:

• Communication
• Trust and loyalty
• Family planning
• Finances
• Sex
• Maintaining a sense of self

Customer Reviews (5)

Very helpful!
I am finding this book very helpful in dealing with my husband's recent diagnosis.Parts of the book could have been written specifically about my situation.The author is very knowledgeable about the subject and offers constructive advice.

Not a step-by-step guide, but good information
There was a lot of good practical information in this book, and a lot of it is common sense woven into a more scientific understanding of bipolar disorder.
It is informative without being overly technical or scientific.
The true stories interjected throughout as illustrations of the principle or concept provided in each chapter are helpful to put things into a "real life" perspective.
I personally would have liked more information or discussion on coping and supporting a partner who is resisting diagnosis or non-compliant with treatment.
The book, in my opinion, seems to lean toward these as being certain "deal-breakers" of the relationship, when in fact for me personally they are not.
Aside from that, I felt it was well worth the price in terms of giving a good overview of the illness and how it relates specifically to the non-bipolar partner, who will at times, per the book and my own experience, feel as if you too have the illness as closely as it impacts your own life.
It does highlight that a fulfilling relationship is very possible with a partner who has bipolar disorder, and I find this to be true from my own experience as well.

Hope and reality
I hope you find my review helpful. If you are bipolar and in a relationship or have a bipolar partner, then I think this book will be helpful.I've been in a bipolar relationship with my girlfriend for almost 5 years.I almost lost her a month or so ago while she was experiencing a manic episode, that is what prompted me to buy this book.I had no plan and little resources to help her stay safe and help my own fears.As our relationship in now on the mend, this book helped me to develope a plan and improved my understanding of her condition.It put things on perspective as ALL relationships have challenges and all people need compassion and love.I got a dose of hope and a jolt of reality from this book, but my hope is greater then my fears. For me and my girlfriend the pluses have always out weighed the minuses, if this is the same for you then this book my help you get the tools you need to keep your relationship mostly healthy and happy.I hope you suceed in your relationship, good luck.

The Bipolar Relationship
Very well written. Excellent guide if you are considering establishing a relationship with a Type 2 bipolar man. Very helpful to me in my decision making process. One day exciting, the next day frustrating. Challenging every day.

It can help make the journey a little easier, but it is the hardest journey you will ever make...
There was no coincidence, but my long-time bipolar girlfriend broke up with me only a few days after I finished reading this book. I arrived home from a business trip to find my stuff in boxes in the car and she drove me to the train station to head away and out of her life. On the way we stopped at our favorite bench overlooking the bay and buried our bracelets under a rock that we each wore and a necklace I gave her that said 'Always Forever' - our dream. A dream we spoke about often - of exploring the world together, having twins and naming them, getting a dog, a house nearby her parents, having good jobs, graduating college and getting married in the mountains.

That was yesterday. The last I saw of her was her crying at the platform as the train pulled away grasping a rock that she picked up in the absence of my hand. I will never be able to let go of her, but I can't fight anymore for us. She was falling in and out of love with me and after me fighting for us to stay together when she doubted I don't know whether I can anymore. It was hurting her to keep trying and she needs to discover that love for herself. Part of me wishes she will come knocking on my door in a week or a month and fight for us again and that the time apart will help her realize how good we were, but part of me knows this might never happen.

Dating someone with bipolar is the most difficult thing you can possibly do. But if you love that person you do it without question because your heart runs so deep for them. Our relationship was full of exhilarating highs and exasperating lows, but the highs always outweighed the lows. Your partner should never apologize for having bipolar, you should love them too much to let this happen.

This is the reality of being in a bipolar relationship. I have read every book I can find on relationships with bipolar, and a lot on bipolar generally, and though relatively basic this was one of the most helpful. It is the simple reassurances the book has, even though you have probably thought them all before, that just seeing them on the page help. A lot of the book won't be relevant to your own individual relationship but the process of reading it will probably help. It is a book I would recommend as a starting point for anyone who has recently started dating someone with bipolar or whose partner has been recently diagnosed. It provides a good general overview of medications and causes without being overly medical or technical.

I was a little disappointed though that the tense of the partner would often change (sometime referred to as he, other times as she, sometimes as your partner). It often also was un-hopeful saying things like "if you choose to stay together". Bipolar relationships need a tremendous amount of hope to succeed and I didn't find this useful. If that hope isn't there it isn't a choice, it happens.

This book can help make the journey a little easier, but it is the hardest journey you will ever make. It is also the happiest if there is love. I don't know what happens next - whether we will be together again or never speak again. I don't even know what to do for the rest of the day but want to curl up into a ball. Be strong, try hard and cherish your love. I know. ... Read more

Product Description
Bipolar disorder, a brain disorder characterized by intense high and low moods, is a complex illness that is often difficult to identify. Each year, at least 2.3 million Americans suffer from its most severe form, while an estimated 10–13 million others suffer from milder forms. Yet, many go misdiagnosed or untreated. In Bipolar Disorder Demystified, author Lana Castle, who has lived most of her life with this illness, turns her personal experience into an enlightening and useful guide for all those traveling down the same path. In clear and compassionate language, Castle helps those who suffer from the illness as well as their friends and family understand the true nature of bipolar disorder, the factors that complicate its diagnosis, and the best ways to cope with it. Bipolar Disorder Demystified makes great strides in dispelling the mystery surrounding this illness, helping readers decide if it’s time to seek treatment and providing those with any form of mood disorder the information they need to better manage their lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Great for bipolars and supporting friends & family
I really liked this book!It is very educational and really "hits the spot" knowing that someone else can express how I feel, think and act.Hurray for the author!

I'm a little less mystified
Having sought help for her own mood disorders off and on since the 70s , Ms Castle is experienced firsthand with talk therapies, alternative cures, and medical approaches to her "brain illness."She believes mood disorders should have no more stigma than a more visible physical illness has, and to that end, she writes. She believes that interventions are critical, making the point repeatedly that lives are at stake.Her sister Barbara took her life in a depressive phase of her own mood disorder. The author also attempted suicide and writes very openly about the problem behaviors she practiced before her brain chemistry became more balanced through medications.
My criticism is that the author attempts to do too much, and in the process, becomes redundant with her suggestions and descriptions. If bipolar disorder is a brain illness, she fails to explain why talking therapy alone is sometimes help enough for such sufferers.Or, in another example she cites, belonging to an affirmational group like Toastmasters. And she does not acknowledge that the medical community is divided in this discussion of chemical imbalances in the brain.Since she acknowledges that parenting and personality both make their contributions to bipolar disorder, she has a bit more work to do in demystifying it.

Everything you'll ever need to know
I love this book. It really helped me with my bipolar disorder while I was in a bad place. I would recommend it to anyone. In fact I recommended it to my mother to read!

Becoming demystified!
I bought the book for a friend who is a shut in.She has a grandson who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.The book gave her the information she needed to understand the disorder and also directed her to solutions about specific issues affecting the family.

Trite, But Not Without Merit.
Bipolar Disorder Demystified is the third book I've read on the subject of Bipolar Disorder.It's an easily read book covering everything from depression to hypomania, medication to the importance of vitamin consumption.The information in this book is expansive almost to the point of unnecessary.The chapter on Biochemistry and Genetics was informative.The chapter on Personality and the "Quadrants" of Perfectionism was senseless.

Lana Castle's attempt at intertwining her personal experience with scientific knowledge was charming in the beginning of the book, but trite towards the end when she tells of joining a Quaker church only to leave due to a persistent suitor, or the excerpts of her journal which read like the rantings of a lunatic.

From what I've read, I'm guessing that Castle is a little flaky.I'm glad that she's been able to find the stability she needs in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, but it's mentioned more often that the importance of psychotherapy and medication compliance.The chapter on Exploring Nonmedical Options began with substance, but ended disappointingly with the mention of using massage and aromatherapy as viable options for this disorder.She suggest communing with nature to relieve stress, but then recommends tasting "the sweat that pours from your face after an aerobic workout", for reasons unknown.

The chapter on Creativity is extremely self-absorbed.Once again, it begins with good intentions, but disappointingly segues into a timeline of Castle's attempts at creativity and pretty much reads like a resume of her creative endeavors or like a child screaming "Daddy, look at me! Look at me!"

Overall, Bipolar Disorder Demystified isn't a terrible book.It's full of a variety of important information on dealing with this disorder and the destruction it can cause.The unevenness in joining her personal encounters and scientific or substantial information (for lack of a better word) is not entirely the fault of Lana Castle.The blame should be placed on the editor for not reining in her clearly self-absorb writing style. (She figuratively thumbs her nose at a former psychiatrist for shooting down her ambitions for being a writer! See pages 301-302).

If you roll your eyes when you see a hippie, or laugh at the though of using penny-royale to cure a flu, then this book is not for you.If you are a hippie and have yerba mate in your refrigerator you'll find this book right up your alley.I consider myself ¼ hippie and found this book useful at times, disappointing but not entirely without merit.If you can stomach the ego of Castle, then read this book.When she's not too busy staring at her reflection in the mirror Castle can be a solid writer. ... Read more

Product Description

When you travel to a new city, it helps to have a map close at hand. On the first day of school, you need to have your schedule of classes. And if you've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or suspect you may have it, then it's even more important to have a guidebook within reach.

Facing Bipolar will help you navigate the world of medications, therapists, and the up-and-down mood cycles common to the disorder. It clearly explains what bipolar disorder is and provides sound guidance for developing the necessary coping skills to manage its impact on your life.

In this book you'll discover:

• How therapy and medications can help
• When and how to tell your friends, roommates, and teachers
• The four key factorsthat will bring more stability to your life
• How to develop a support network and access college resources
• Ways to overcome the challenges in accepting this illness

Customer Reviews (15)

Best helpful informative and insightful... book/manual!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Facing Bipolar: The Young Adult's Guide to Dealing With Bipolar Disorder Excellent book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Great informative insightful educational inspiring encouraging.... Book/Manual!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Those who have or think he/she may/know someone who may have this illness must have this book as a reference guide/ helpful tool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!..................................................................

Excellent, Well-Written Book about Bipolar Disorder
The authors, both associated with the counseling center at the University of Virginia, have written a very complete, yet easy-to-read volume about biploar disorder.The book takes the reader from diagnosis to discussing the future that life holds for those with bipolar disorder.Additionally, there are chapters written about any topic a patient with BP would want to have answered.

Although this book's intended audience is for young adults and college students, I found the information in it was very helpful for me, too - and I'm 52!I enjoyed the way the authors used the language college students use, and I especially appreciated the case studies the authors use to illustrate the points they want to make.It's helpful to see how other people in the same situation have dealt with bipolar disorder.

If you are wondering if this book would help you understand bipolar disorder and assist you or a loved one face this diagnosis, I highly recommend that you order this book.You will not be disappointed.

Refreshing!
Hands down, the best resource I've found for young adults dealing with bipolar disorder.I am 24 and was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder a few years ago. While I have been through many of the initial shocks and have learned the hard way that I need to be on a schedule (many of the things Facing Bipolar addresses), this book provided me with a sense of relief I didn't have before.Before reading this book, I felt alone. I don't know anyone my age or even close to it that struggles with mental health to the same extent.I've read half a dozen books about being bipolar and this is the one that really hit home. Facing Bipolar is a much needed resource for young adults dealing with bipolar disorder for the first time.

The Best Book Around for Basic Information on Bipolar!
Facing Bipolar gives straightforward information on how Bipolar works, what to do to manage it and what to expect.It isn't full of technical medical study information, but rather information that anyone, whether a "Young Adult" or "Adult" can use.I think I have read them all, this was the best.In fact, I recommended it to a therapist friend who works with the local schools and they went out and got two copies for the special ed area to read themselves.

Excellent resource
I found this book to be incredibly helpful.I am a student with bipolar disorder and have read more works on the disorder than I can count.This one stands out in particular for its ability to connect on a young adult's level and provide a detailed guide to how best to stay healthy.I highly recommend this work for anyone facing bipolar disorder. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

The enhanced second edition includes a study on new treatments for the ailment, and new case studies
Emotional disorders such as bipolar disorder are never the private inner conflict of one person - they affect the families of the bipolar individual a great deal as well. "Bipolar Disorder: A Family-Focused Treatment Approach" examines the disorder as a problem that the afflicted and his or her family must face together, touching on emotional resistance to treatment, distinguishing to the disorder from the person, and the importance of communication. The enhanced second edition includes a study on new treatments for the ailment, and new case studies. "Bipolar Disorder: A Family-Focused Treatment Approach" is highly recommended for community library health collections and for anyone afflicted or related to the afflicted.
... Read more

Product Description
[SERIES COPY] The Adolescent Mental Health Initiative series addresses some of the major mental health issues facing teenagers today--eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. Of the dozen or so books planned for the series, the first four, including the two presented here, focus on how parents and other adults, including teachers, coaches, guidance counselors, and even pediatricians, can help afflicted teens overcome the disrupting and often devastating challenges of these disorders. Each book is an authoritative guide that offers essential information such as how to go about getting a diagnosis, what the latest treatment options and prevention strategies are, how to help teens cope with mental illness at home and at school and, perhaps most importantly, what the warning signs and red flags are that parents and other adults should look out for in teenagers who may be at risk for these diseases. Combining the expertise of leading psychiatrists and psychologists with the experience of everyday people who have faced these disorders in their own children, the books are designed to help adults deal effectively with adolescent mental illness and to empower them to act immediately and wisely in getting teens the best available treatment possible. While coping with teenage moodiness can be difficult under any circumstances, it can be especially challenging if a teenager has a serious mood disorder. This concise, readable book is the definitive guide to understanding and getting effective help for adolescents with depression or bipolar disorder, designed for parents and other adults in contact with afflicted teens. It combines the most current scientific expertise available today--including the newest treatments and medications and the latest research findings on mood disorders--with no-nonsense, hands-on advice from parents who have faced these disorders in their own children. Among other topics, the book addresses the biochemical roots of adolescent mood disorders, the ongoing debate over psychiatric medications for young people, and practical strategies for helping a teen cope at home and at school. It concludes on a hopeful note, by reviewing the latest scientific evidence on methods of stopping mood disorders before they start or minimizing the risk of recurrence. A growing body of research now shows that early diagnosis and treatment of depression and bipolar disorder may reduce the severity of these diseases, both now and in the future. Including red flags to look out for and warnings on the dangers of doing nothing, this book will provide the information and tools parents need to help adolescents achieve the best possible outcome. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Nice Little Overview
I honestly think that there is such a vast difference between Depression and Bipolar Disorder, I think they should have just gone ahead and printed two separate books.

This book is well-written and easy to read, and short.It provides a quick overview of what these illnesses are, warning signs, an overview of treatments, and getting accommodations at school.

I liked the short stories from parents about real-life kids with these disorders, and I liked the one line tipes and summaries on every couple pages, offset in the margins.

I was rather shocked that in the short section on dietary supplements they only mention SAM-e and St. John's Wort without mentioning Omega-3 Fatty Acids which HAVE been proven to be of help. It was even mentioned as using as an adjunct with lithium.

There also wasn't any emphasis on "sleep hygiene" which is always touted as being so important to success.

It is far from a "Bible" of adolescent Depression or Bipolar Disorder, but as I said, it is a nice little overview.

... Read more

Product Description

This readable guide to the assessment and management of patients with bipolar disorder can help physicians keep abreast of dramatic and rapid advances of recent years and integrate them into their practice. Handbook of Diagnosis and Treatment of Bipolar Disorders emphasizes recent controlled studies and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved indications and translates these data into the real world of clinical practice. The contributions of the eleven chapter authors from Stanford University reflect more than a decade of clinical research and treatment undertaken at that institution, including advances in diagnosis and interventions supported by controlled studies. The manual provides crucial information regarding diagnosis, pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and treatment of patients from special populations such as children, women, and older adults and patients with particularly challenging illness courses such as rapid cycling.

Product Description
Living with bipolar disorder is a challenge, and this book is designed to help patients and their families develop the skills they need to be a good consumer of treatment and to become an expert partner in the management of bipolar disorder.Drawing on research documenting the strength of combining drug treatments with behavioral interventions for fighting bipolar disorder, this book takes a skill-based, family-and-friends approach to managing the ups and downs commonly experienced with the disorder. With Living With Bipolar Disorder, sufferers can learn how to better recognize mood shifts before they happen, minimize their impact, and move on with their lives.
Written by the authors of Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Program, this book teaches individuals with bipolar disorder how to work together with their family and friends to take charge of their illness and get the most out of professional treatment. The authors stress the importance of an active partnership in treatment, while providing information and strategies to help patients and their families enhance their independence and their management of bipolar disorder.In addition to the strategies directed to individuals suffering from bipolar disorder, this book also provides information and instructions for friends and family members so they'll have the tools to help their loved ones take control of their illness. Family members will learn how to recognize potential problems, provide encouragement, practice new coping skills, and understand what the patient is going through. The book also provides worksheets and forms to help the patient reinforce skills and practices learned in therapy. It includes information about the details of living with bipolar disorder, gives advice on the best ways to avoid relapses, and teaches how to anticipate problems.
Here then is a wealth of information on bipolar disorder along with effective strategies to reduce the likelihood of episodes of depression or mania and maximize the enjoyment of life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

love it! buy it and mark it up!
love it, love it, love it. i have bipolar and my sister does. we both love the book. if you have bipolar or a family memeber does, get it. mark it up. ... Read more

Product Description
Even if you've just been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it's likely that you've been living with it for a long time. You've probably already developed your own ways of coping with recurring depression, the consequences of manic episodes, and the constant, uncomfortable feeling that you're at the mercy of your emotions. Some of these methods may work; others might do more harm than good. The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook for Bipolar Disorder will help you integrate your coping skills with a new and effective dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) plan for living well with bipolar disorder.

The four DBT skills you'll learn in this workbook-mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness-will help you manage your emotional ups and downs and minimize the frequency and intensity of depressive and manic episodes. By using this book in conjunction with medication and professional care, you'll soon experience relief from your bipolar symptoms and come to enjoy the calm and confident feeling of being in control.

• Learn mindfulness and acceptance skills
• Cope with depressive and manic episodes in healthy ways
• Manage difficult emotions and impulsive urges
• Maintain relationships with friends and family members

Customer Reviews (5)

Good Resource
Great resource for clients. I encourage those who can to purchase it, and check it out to those who can't. It has lots of good skills and ways to work them into your life.

Insightful tool for patients, families and clinicians
The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook for Bipolar Disorder is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about the complex challenges in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder. Van Dijk writes in plain language with descriptive headings, straightforward case study stories and includes many valuable guided exercises.She clearly breaks down dialectical behavior therapy skills as they apply to the wide range of symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.

Using a creative practical approach to mindfulness, Van Dijk gently encourages the practice of present moment awareness of symptoms, thoughts, feelings and sensations. She validates the difficulty of practicing mindfulness, along with the many life enhancing benefits that come with gaining control of your mind.

The book effectively illustrates the direct connection between judgments and emotions. It provides a simple framework to work with intense emotional experience from the triggering event right through to the action urge and aftereffects. It also provides excellent exercises to separate facts from judgments and to explore the power of language in helping foster a nonjudgmental stance.

Van Dijk takes a compassionate approach to help people struggling with Bipolar Disorder gain control of their emotions and behave in more life affirming ways.She effectively teaches how to use skills to develop insight, heal relationships and reduce impulsive behavior.The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook for Bipolar Disorder is a valuable tool in engendering hope for patients, families and clinicians working in this field.

A review of:The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook for Bipolar Disorder
This is very user friendly workbook that is empathically written. It provides a clear explanation of the variety of symptoms experienced by people coping with bipolar disorder, or any of the broad range of symptom intensities related to this disorder.It offers a clear presentation of a very useful and practical approach, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, that fosters the development of one's best abilities to manage difficult, problematic moods, urges and behaviors.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a creative blend of cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness approaches.Mindfulness approaches develop necessary awareness, compassionate acceptance of what is, and progressive skills (including distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness skills) so that one can enjoy healthier functioning and easier achievement of one's realistic goals.

Many personal stories richly illustrate the important points being presented.There are wonderfully clear explanations on how to foster more positive and effective relationships.For family and friends wishing to helpfully assist a loved one develop maximum functioning there are highly useful guidelines.Also provided are many additional good reasouces including books, websites and organizations.The use of this workbook along with ongoing medical and professional care will help one gain progressive relief from bipolar disorder.The Bipolar Workbook for Teens: Dbt Skills to Help You Control Mood Swings (Instant Help)

excellent workbook
this workbook is clear, sensitive and very reasonably written. It is useful for the psychologically minded person working with a therapist, as well as for someone trying to do self help on their own. Good clear explanations of the processes and useful tools, and many worksheet type pages to copy and share. good to apply to many people with different types of emotional struggles.

DBT for BiPolar disorder
It is a quick and easy reference book, it contains all the main issues you require for formulate a treatment plan ... Read more

Product Description
Learn about recently discovered types of depression which are very common, but do not get better with ordinary medical treatment. Bipolar depressions are mistaken for personality disorders,panic attacks hyperactivity, and substance abuse. This book will teach you to recognize these depressions for you and the ones you love. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Excellent book on Bi-Polar Disorder
Why isnt your depression getting better?? It's due to un-carefully made psychiatric diagnoses.This book objectively explores Bi-polar, its sub-types, and its chronic mis-diagnosis.The author compares aspects of Depression, Borderline, and other disorders to subtypes of bi-polar d/o.He does this though exploring real cases conceptualized in his practice.He explores a topic that tends to be monotonous reading by means of engaging story-telling.
Upon completion of the book, its blatantly obvious the tragic effects such a mis-diagnosis can have on a persons life; as well has how common and easy it is to misdiagnose a sub-type of Bi-Polar D/O as something else.It was quite refreshing to hear such thoughtful conceptualization of diagnosis.Often times, psychiatrists do not look at their cases with such thorough, well-thought out scrutiny.He makes these aspects easy to understand, making innovative metaphors such as the chapter on,"kindling."¨
This book is a pleasure to read.Anyone in mental health, with a mental health disorder, or laments person alike will find this book informative, yet enjoyable to read.One of the most striking philosophies comes towards the end of the book in Chapter 18, "to love and work."Learning and accepting that you need to put your oxygen mask on first is sure to leave you thinking.
In the forward, he thanks his mother for the title-which he writes is far more interesting one than he originally gave. Im left very curious as to what the original one was.:-)

Well-informed
A close friend of mine whose father is bipolar recommended that I read this book since I had so little knowledge on the disorder.This book was incredible.I found it to be very easy to read.It gave some good clues in laymen terms about what questions to ask about the disorder and it helped me understand it a little more.

A Must Read
This book tackles the misdiagnoses of this disorder.Dr. Bartos provides specific case histories which are most insightful.His references to the misuse of alcohol and drugs masking the symptoms of depression are excellent."Why Your Depression Isn't Getting Better: The Epidemic of Undiagnosed Bipolar Disorders" is a must read for anyone who is trying to further their education on bipolar disorder.

Not Funny
I came across this book out of the blue and had hopes it would tell me something useful about a serious problem.The author, a practicing psychiatrist, seems to think he must be cute in describing his cases, giving them unfunny titles like "Bipolar, Sell High."His humor is misplaced and his tendency to think all problems are bipolar gets tiresome after a while.Those looking for insight and understanding are bound to be disappointed, and those wanting to laugh should consult a comedian rather than a psychiatrist.

Helpful info for all
This book provides useful information for anyone who cares about someone they know who may have Bipolar Depression. It is also a great resource for clinicians working with these patients. A must read. ... Read more

Product Description
Young people with bipolar disorder and adults who grew up with the condition speak out to share how they experienced the symptoms of this illness during their youth, and how it affected their functioning in school, at home and with friends. Their insightful comments, woven together by the author, form a stunning picture of the young person's internal experience. The reader will come away with a new understanding of these young people and a renewed commitment to make a difference by reaching out to help. "Tracy Anglada has broken new ground with Intense Minds. While most books speak about the children and their feelings, hers is the first to capture the children articulating what they truly feel themselves: their impossible levels of frustration and irritability, their episodes of emptiness or manic energy, their severe difficulties in the academic environment, and their dread of night time due to their propensity to suffer horrific images and scenarios while sleeping. "One comes away with such admiration for these children and adolescents for soldiering on despite these terrible burdens, and for the author who took the time to listen and put their words to paper. Parents, clinicians and educators must read this first-of-its-kind book." Demitri F. Papolos, M.D. and Janice PapolosAuthors of The Bipolar Child ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Really helps with understanding what your child is going through
If you are looking for a book that helps with understanding what exactly a bipolar child is going through and what/how they are thinking, then this is the book for you. It was wonderful to read this book both alone and with our child.We often read passages to our child to see if he was feeling similar things, or going through similar experiences. Through the words of other children, it helped us to understand our child better, get to know him more and become more familiar and versed in what he was going thorugh. It gave us a significantly greater understanding of his experience. It also helped substanially to know that he is not alone, and we are not alone, with various thoughts and feelings we all have and go through with this disorder- that we are not alone in our experiences.We have given this book to our child's classroom teacher each year, and to any speacial ed teachers or counselors that he may be working with. Each time they comment on how unique and useful the book's perspective is- that it really helps them to understand this illness and to be able to look at it and understand it from the child's eyes, perspective, and to hear about it in their words... excellent resource and tool for anyone working with a bipolar child, an absolute must have.

Informative and helpful
Intense minds was helpful and informative. For those who know someone with Bipolar disorder, it's insights help you see into a young bipolar mind.

Good basic information
This book takes the unique perspective of kids who are dealing with mental illness. It is comforting to read the stories of these children.

However, as a parent newly coping with Bipolar disorder in my home, it was frustrating to have just the cause and affect of the disorder discussed. There is nothing out there for parents. I was hoping for guidance on how to cope myself, how to handle discipline, how to help my other children through the rages and how to keep my relationships with my bipolar child intact. This book provided none of these things.

Intense Minds - Extraordinary
This book examines the minds of young people with Bipolar Disorder. The author's presentation is so much more than a description of symptoms often used to make a diagnosis. Anglada delves into the minds, thoughts, and feelings of these kids through interviews where the children provide honest, unfiltered accounts of the way they experience the world.

The individual descriptions of such intense childhood experiences, each originating from a child's mind, left me with a deeper and more profound understanding of what these children go through in their day to day lives.

This is book is a gift to anyone seeking to understand Bipolar Disorder from the perspective of the sufferer. Five Stars.

Excellent resource for School Psychologists to recommend
Through their own words about growing up with Bipolar Disorder, children, teens, and adults offer an opportunity for others to empathize and act to support children with whom they may work in the classroom, at home, and in a medical or therapeutic setting.This is a quick read which includes descriptions of the illness and suggestions for helping young people successfully cope with their disorder. ... Read more

Product Description
If you suffer from bipolar disorder, this program can be closely integrated with the medication you are taking to help you manage your symptoms and stabilize your mood. Comprised of up to 30 sessions, this treatment is divided into four phases, each with its own focus and set of goals. In phase 1, you will learn the skills and strategies necessary for overcoming the depressive phase of your illness. In phase 2, after your mood has been stabilized, you will work together with your therapist to create a treatment contract that informs your friends and family of what to do when you are ill. In phase 3, your therapist will individualize your treatment and focus on specific problems, such as social skills, problem solving, anger management, etc. Phase 4 gives advice on the best ways to avoid relapses , and shows you how to anticipate future problems. The overall goal of the treatment is not to cure your disorder, but to teach you how to manage it effectively so that you can lead a successful and stable life.

TreatmentsThatWorkTM represents the gold standard of behavioral healthcare interventions!



·All programs have been rigorously tested in clinical trials and are backed by years of research


·A prestigious scientific advisory board, led by series Editor-In-Chief David H. Barlow, reviews and evaluates each intervention to ensure that it meets the highest standard of evidence so you can be confident that you are using the most effective treatment available to date


·Our books are reliable and effective and make it easy for you to provide your clients with the best care available


·Our corresponding workbooks contain psychoeducational information, forms and worksheets, and homework assignments to keep clients engaged and motivated


·A companion website (www.oup.com/us/ttw) offers downloadable clinical tools and helpful resources


·Continuing Education (CE) Credits are now available on select titles in collaboration with PsychoEducational Resources, Inc. (PER) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The best approach to this treating this malady
A common sense, well-thought out workbook toward minimizing and managing the ups and downs of any affective disorder.Puts the responsibility and possibilities of management squarely in the patient's hands, once initial work with it with one's therapist finished.Offers techniques to integrate into everyday life instead of just patches to get you through the hard times.I can't recommend this workbook more highly.It has changed my life.

Managing Bipolar Disorder workbook
This resource has assisted in meeting the therapeutic challenges of clients with the diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder. ... Read more

Product Description
The second edition of this groundbreaking guidebook provides up-to-date treatments and compassionate guidance for anyone affected by bipolar disorder—from the recently diagnosed to chronic sufferers and their families. You’ll receive tips from world-renowned experts—including coauthor Nancy Rosenfeld, herself a bipolar survivor—and learn about vital new options and innovations in bipolar treatment and research, such as:

•New precautions: why some patients can get worse rather than better when taking antidepressant medication

•The inside story on atypical antipsychotic medications,antidepressants, and other medications that affect neurotransmitters

•New genetic research, studies on serotonin, studies into childhood and adolescent bipolar disorder, and results of neuron imaging and neuropsychological testing

•Advice on making instant, effective lifestyle changes, coping with stigma, and deciding whether or not—and how—to disclose your illness to others.

•A guide to the many evolving forms of psychotherapy ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Disappointing, disjunctive, disorganized
I thought this book in its attempt to be friendly rather than authoritative was dumbed down sometimes to the point of being an insult to the reader's intelligence. There is some science in it and some clinical discussion that is worth it, but it is quite disjunctive and not well organized, hopping around from topic to topic, and full of platitudes and obvious statements.What really is needed is a serious book for the serious reader,and this is not it. There is nothing in this book you can't find on the internet in various forms or other - the book as nothing of the insight into the condition that some more popularbooks have-- the whole first chapter is about how stress can induce episodes before we even know what the disease is, what causes it, etc - this is just sloppy - the whole book is sloppy.There have to be better books on the market than this, not recommended for the serious reader.

Highly recommended
I read the original book and this is much better.It is very up-to-date in terms of therapies and medications.I especially liked the ideas about self-help.This book is written by professionals and a woman with bipolar disorder, so it gives a lot of perspectives.I highly recommend this book.

An Essential Book on Bipolar Disorder
"For many bipolar patients, the dark cloud of the illness is leavened by silver linings-creativity, intelligence, and drive. As a result, the bipolar spectrum is a more prevalent phenomenon among those in the public eye: artists, performers, writers, composers, and charismatic leaders."

Nancy Rosenfeld is a bipolar survivor who convinced Jan Fawcett (one of the world's leading authorities on depression and bipolar disorder) and Bernard Golden (a practicing psychologist for more than 30 years) to coauthor this book. Since more than 6 million people suffer from bipolar disorder/manic depression this is a much needed resource. This is the third book I've read on this disorder and this is by far the most comprehensive.

The book begins by profiling several famous people who have the disorder. Some of the main problems include mania, hypomania and depression. This book explains the differences between Schizoaffective Bipolar disorder, Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder. This book also lists a number of medications like Lithium, Risperidone and Geodon that are helpful in treating the disorder.

"Despite all the research demonstrating that people with mental illness are actually less prone to violence than others, many people erroneously associate aggressive behavior with mental disorders." ~ pg. 153

The book becomes even more useful as you read about when medications should be taken and what to watch for in regards to side effects. A patient must at times choose between side effects and suicidal tendancies. In the long run it is better to deal with the side effects than to lose your life. If a pill causes drowsiness then it might be better taken at night. Often side effects can be treated by taking an additional medication.

The prevention of suicide is an essential chapter. It talks about the importance of staying on medication and gives a list of things you can do if you think someone may be suicidal. There is also a Stress Questionnaire to establish your level of stress. The authors explain why you should develop an adequate support system and also give a list of books to read for further information.

I can highly recommend this to families who are dealing with bipolar disorder, to doctors who must address the many needs of their patients and to those suffering with bipolar disorder.

"For many people with bipolar disorder, the turning point in their life comes when they understand their situation, accept responsibility for their actions, and are willing to work hard to change their lives." ~ pg. 218

With so many people suffering from this disorder it is very likely that you will meet someone in your life with this issue. In order to understand what it is like to be bipolar this book is essential. If you are suffering with bipolar disorder then there is not a minute to lose and this book will give you hope that you can be treated effectively. Since many doctors don't have the time for detailed explanations this can also be used as a companion to your present treatment. For doctors I can recommend Treatment of Bipolar Illness: A Casebook for Clinicians and Patients.

~The Rebecca Review

Essential Up-to-the-Minute Read on BiPolar Illness
For those diagnosed with this disabling illness and their family and friends, this 2nd edition, published 2007, is essential to a better understanding of this mysterious and often frustrating illness. As head of psychiatry at Rush medical college for 30 years, Dr. Fawcett trained many of those prominent and truly capable in the field of psycho-pharmacology today. My daughter and I have been blessed with the help of two of those he mentored at Rush. An easy read for both patient and family alike, "New Hope" 2nd edition covers the whole spectrum from the newest medications to social behaviors, etc. I can't recommend it highly enough. It is essential for anyone dealing with this devastating illness. Thank you, Dr. Fawcett! ... Read more

Product Description
"Understanding And Treating Bipolar Disorder," a 97-page eBook that provides comprehensive information about this disorder, is a must read for everybody who wishes to enhance their knowledge about it. Revealing little-known facts, it offers an insight into the disorder. It explains in simple, layperson's terms the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder and outlines various ways of managing it.

These Are Some Of The Tips You Will Find In The Book :

* Understanding Bipolar To Get Help
* Why Should I Get Help Anyway?
* Why So Many Struggle With Treatment
* Learning To Cope With Bipolar Disorder
* Why You Should Consider Support Groups
* Childhood Treatment Options For Bipolar Disorder
* What To Do If You Have A Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis
* Tips On Recognizing Bipolar Symptom And Its Importance
* Treatments For Bipolar Disorder: Getting Rid Of That Monkey On Your Back
* The Manifestations Shown By A Bipolar Child Helps In Proper Diagnosis
* A Bipolar Overview: Discovering Bipolar
* Medicine Or Talk Therapy: Common Bipolar Disorder Treatment
* Your Child And Bipolar Disorder: What You Should Know And What You Should Do
* Considering A Long-Term Medication For Bipolar? Choose LAMICTAL
* Pediatric Bipolar Versus Asperger's Disorder
* Tough Yet Rewarding Ways On Loving Someone With Bipolar Disorder
* Bipolar And Schizophrenia: Are Both Disorders The Same?
* What Are The Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder?
* A Complete Guide To Bipolar Illness
* Living Your Life In Advantage Even With Bipolar
* Helpful Tips To Newcomers On A Bipolar Chat Room
* Understanding Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
* Bipolar Disorder - Symptoms And Effects
* Bipolar II Disorder - 13 Points To Remember
* Bipolar Online Quiz
* Are You Too Moody Or Are You Going Nuts? Analyze With A Bipolar Test!
* Signs & Symptoms in the Depressive Phase
* Signs & Symptoms in the Manic Phase
* Causes Of Bipolar Disorder - 11 Points To Remember
* Understanding The Bipolar Disorder Codes - 18 Codes You Must Know
* Medications For Bipolar Disorder - 10 Points To Remember
* Bipolar Disorder Among Children - 11 Key Symptoms
* CBT To Treat Bipolar Disorder
* Treatments For Bipolar Disorder
* Understanding Bipolar Disorder - 14 Basic Facts


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Product Description
Although the mainstay of bipolar therapy is drug treatment, psychoeducation is a technique that has proven to be very effective as an add-on to medication, helping to reduce the number of all types of bipolar recurrences and hospitalization. The object is to improve patients' understanding of the disorder and therefore their adherence to pharmacotherapy. Based on the highly successful, evidence-based Barcelona program, this book is a pragmatic, therapists' guide for how to implement psychoeducation for bipolar patients. It gives practical guidance for how to conduct a psychoeducation group, using sessions and cases drawn from the Barcelona Psychoeducation Program. Moreover, it provides the reader with a great amount of practical tips and tricks and specific techniques to maximize the benefits of bipolar psychoeducation. The authors formed the first group to show the efficacy of psychoeducation as a maintenance treatment and have a long history of performing bipolar psychoeducation. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (9)

Good Therapy Stratagies to augment Medication
This book is intended for therapists, but the authors explicitly state that it can be useful for patients.I am a patient with bi-polar disorder and find it readable and helpful (though I have not put much effort into implementing all of the ideas).The authors give several therapeutic stratagies to go along with (not replace) treatment with medication.These include monitoring symptoms; monitoring thought patterns; setting limits when on the manic side and setting goals when on the depressive side; developing action priorities to keep activities focused and productive; and more.The authors also very strongly advocate adhering to the medication regimine prescribed by the psychiatrist, but encourage the patient to be an active participant in developing the lifetime plan for living with bipolar disorder.

Bi Polar Bear
This little book explains very well some of the problems in a bipolar family. My 12 year granddaughter informed me that she already "knew that stuff" and hates to talk about it, but I'm glad I purchased it anyway. I do recommend the book especially for children who have someone in the family with BPD who can readto them and answer questions.

Therapy of bipolar disorder
The book presents an excellent review of the subject. It is geared for the practitioners, primarily non-MDs. Manualized approach is helpful.

A Review by a Patient
The intended audience for this book are therapists, but the information is laid out in language that is accessible to the lay reader. It gives a very informative overview of what is involved and expected in cognitive-behavioral therapy in particular for those suffering from bipolar disorder. As a patient, I found it useful to read, even though it is not a self-help book. There is a workbook by Dr. Basco for people with bipolar disorder which is a self-help book that is very useful. I would recommend the workbookfirst for patients, followed by this book if they want to learn more.

Excellent book!
Having very little first hand experience with bipolar, this book really gave me a thorough understanding of the disorder and extremely useful clinical information for treatment plan development.I haven't found another source that is a comprehensive as this work.The treatment recommendations are simply awesome!Just wish there were more resources like this one.Excellent book! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (13)

Excellent
I have just began reading this book - but it is an excellent resource if you have a teen who is showing signs, being treated, or has been diagnosed with Bi-polar - it is full of information regarding bi-polar, causes, medications, and recommended treatment options and recaps bi-polar medications and side-effects - if you are desperately seeking information regarding your bi-polar teen - this is an excellent resource - DH

Understanding is a two way street!
This book sets the stage for any family to begin and understand this terrible disorder that afflicts so many of our young teens and their families.Not only do you, the reader, learn about what causes and treatments that are available to you and loved ones. But, you learn how to go about understanding what triggers episodes and how to help cope with the life piercing stresses that accompanies Bi Polar disorder. I could goon and on. But I believe once you have read this book you too, you will think that the authors are directly speaking about your own personal challenges. Only the names are different.

great book
Understanding your child's emotional challenges can help your child be the best they can be
A Moment of Peace: Relaxation for Parents AudiobookA Moment of Peace: Relaxation for Children

Very helpful for families
This book is full of information about diagnosis, medication, treatment, and managing the teen in the home, as well as many valuable and practical tips to guide family members in this difficult situation. It is written in a very accessible way for family members to understand and use.

Teen or Bipolar
It is very hard to tell what is normal teen craziness and bipolar unease. There are still areas that are grey and as a parent you have to trust your gut feelings. Bottom line dealing with a teen or two teens with bipolar is not easy no matter what you read. Books just make you feel a bit less crazy! To know that others understand and to get some insight helps. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (11)

Book seems to just blame the mother for her child being Bipolar
I can't help but notice these reviews are from others in the field and not parents who live with these kids. While I found some of the info interesting much of it left me scratching my head or just down right angry and I'm only half way though the book! The author seems to want to blame everything on the parents, they let the child sleep in there bed to long (past age 3), the child never learned to accept the word "NO", oh! it must be the parents fault! They must just not have a back bone and are letting there child run the show and that if they would just be firm with there child everything would be peachy dory. Its garbage like this thats made it so hard for parents to get real help with our kids.

exceptional work
This book helps both the parent of a bipolar child as well as the trained professional.It is an insight into the illness written in a way that is easy to follow, yet full of extremely valuable information.I have purchased many copies of this book in order to pass this information on to those parents I know who are struggling with their bipolar children.The idea of being a "good enough" parent has really helped me with my own daughter.I would highly recommend this book to anyone in search of information, or purely curiosity.It is an excellent read.

The best book I have read on this topic
I am a psychologist who works with bipolar adolescents and adults and I think this book is the best I have read on this topic.
This is a kind and gentle book that shows great understanding of the problems and strengths of the bipolar child. This is a wonderfully written book without jargon, which accurately describes the good, the hard and the complicated of being a child or raising a child with this disease.This book also deals with the secondary problems children face such as drug and alcohol use and other risk taking behaviors.
The author describes in detail how such children function from preschool through young adulthood. There is an important section of the difference between bipolar disorder and ADD.And, there are clear recommendations as to how to deal with the difficulties bipolar children have in ways that don't punish the child or the parent.
Actually, his suggestions are great for parents with children who are not bipolar.
What comes across is this is a caring book written by a caring doctor.

This is a great book
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and just recently sat down to read the book cover to cover. Dr. Lombardo is a gifted teacher who presents ideas and concepts in such a fashion that the recommendations he gives to parents make sense.I especially was glad that he acknowledges that parents need to be good enough, not perfect.As Dr. Lombardo phrased it: "perfect is the enemy of good" (pg 62). I think this is very validating to parents of bipolar children who all too often get unspoken messages from others that defective parenting skills are the cause of the bipolar's child's behaviors.As if in a "hats off" to parents of bipolar children, Dr. Lombardo states:"It takes courage to acknowledge the presence of bipolar disorder, in ourselves and in our children....Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to do the right thing in the presence of fear" (pg 276).

Suzanne C. Simon -- psychotherapist
I am a psychotherapist with some 20 years of experience, but I do not deal directly with children. I was drawn to this book in an effort to learn more about a field that is outside my own. I found it to be an amazing work. In the first place,itmakes a major contribution to the problems raised in understanding and parenting a bipolar child. It presents the very latest knowledge in the field,in clear and lucid language, beautifully organized and wholly understandable to the lay person. I found it particulary useful because it also deals with the positive aspects of this illness, such as the extraordinary sensitivity and creativity that many of these children manifest. Its coverage is complete, extending from infancy into adolescence.But beyond that, it successfully places those problems in the much broader context of human psychological and personality development in general. For example, the chapter dealing with saying "No" to young children contains a brilliant analysis applicable to all children or even,for that matter, to adults. At the end of the book there is a thorough discussion of the many different types of treatment available, together with a reference guide to the latest medications. I can recommend it without hesitation both to parents and professionals.Indeed, I will be recommending this book to those of my own patients who have problems with their children, even though they may not necessarily be diagnosed as bipolar. ... Read more

Product Description
[SERIES COPY] New to the Adolscent Mental Health Initiative series are books written specifically for teens and adolescents.Each book addresses some of the major mental health issues facing young people today: depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders.Tey will be written for and by young people who have struggled with and conquered these illnesses themselves.Supplementing this first-person narrative with the scholarship and expertise of leading psychiatrists and psychologists, the authors will provide such essential information as how to go about getting a diagnosis, what the latest treatment options are, and how to cope with mental illness at home and at school.Using this unique combination of personal narrative and cutting-edge research, these books are designed to help teens adn young adults deal effectively with these illnesses and to empower them and their families to act immediately and wisely and getting the best available treatment possible.

The life of a person with bipolar disorder can be tumultuous.Imagine living in a world divided into many parts: one is fast-paced, frantic, energetic--you are at the top of your game and feeling invincible; another is so bleak and dark that even the simple task of going to the store requires Herculean effort.Now imagine a third: going about your daily routing when another manifestation, the mixed state, combines these symptoms simultaneously.This is just a glimpse into the world of a person with bipolar disorder
Many people diagnosed with this disorder are adolescents: young people who often feel isolated, unsure of who to talk to, or where to turn for help or answers.Having been diagnosed with the disorder at age fifteen, Patrick Jamieson knows firsthand the highs and lows and bring his experiences to bear in Mind Race: A Firsthand Account of One Teenager's Experience with Bipolar DisorderR, the first in the Annenberg Mental Health Initiative series written specifically for teenagers and young adults.Mind Race is a first-person account, aimed at teens who have recently been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, informative in a compassionate, good-humored, yet authoritative manner.Jamieson discusses his own challenges and triumphs, and offers advice on dealing with developing symptoms such as how to recognize the beginning of a mood shift.In accessible language, he presents the latest in scientific research on the disorder, treatment options, and how to cope with side effects of different medications.He includes a detailed F.A.Q. that answers the questions a newly diagnosed adolescent is likely to have, and also offers suggestions on how to communicate with friends and family about the bipolar experience.
With Mind Race, Jamieson offers hope to teens and young adults living with bipolar disorder, helping them to navigate and overcome their challenges so they can lead a full and rewarding life.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Excellent Book!
This book was very informative and gave answers I was searching for.I liked the "first person" format.It made it easier to relate to the problems the author had while growing up.Excellent Book!

Very Helpful Insight
As the parents of a wonderful child who is being treated for a chemical imbalance in her brain that has been recently diagnosed (after years of miss diagnosis) as bipolar, we have found that this book has given us more insight into the illness than any other book we have read to date (which is quite a few). This is NOT a reference book with general advice on treating the condition, but a single person's experience with it.While his experiences are not the same as ours, this telling is very vivid and understandable, and he pulls no punches while not getting preachy.He brings up many of the issues that face this illness including the impacts it has on friendships, lifestyle, how certain terminology in our society can affect the person struggling with these issues.The book is a short easy read that touches on many aspects of the treatments but not as a reference but more as an explanation.His use of humor to ease some of the heavy parts is excellent, and the book has become a wonderful way to open dialog with all members of our family.We have purchased a number of copies of the book and are sharing them with others.THANK YOU Patrick Jamieson.You have given us both the focus of seriousness of the condition as well as hope that our wonderful child can live a full and wonderful life.

He is me, I am him
This book shows me personally. Living with bipolar, I formed a connection. With humor, yet poignant truth this book clearly depicts inner turmoil and shame experienced. His constant denial of a psychological diagnosis was the lack of education of society during his upbringing; where brain based chemical imbalances defined you "crazy" and "dangerous." The book's complete honesty using layman terms can depict the two unpredictable uproars of "mass destruction." Where mania and depression play tug a war inside a solitary body. GOOD READ.

Dissapointing
I was very dissapointed with this book. Fortuantely I bought it through marketplace and didn't spend too much on it. The book was a waste of my time. Also the book is deceptive, it sates that it is told from the reference of a teen, but it is told from the reference of an adult who, at that, mentions more of medication and treatment. Not more that 30 pages are towards his experience in a psych wards as a teen. It also looks more like a pamphlet than a book.

well written and interesting....
This book is a well-written and interesting first person account of the coming of age of a teenager with bipolar disorder.It is the best book I've seen that describes what what mania and depression feels like.It discusses all the pertinent topics, drugs, depression, mania, suicidal feelings and hospitalization, including why one would be hospitalized and what it is like being in hospital.The author talks about all these things as he has experienced them, which is the chief strength of the book.I would recommend this book for anyone who is bipolar and for the family and friends of people who are bipolar.It is very well done. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (13)

Wish I had read this 10 years ago!
Much of the info in this book I had already spent about 1000 hours learning on my own.It's nice to see how many other people are looking to the many causes rather than merely treating symptoms with the latest drug doctors are pushing. This book can be a bit overwhelming to someone newly diagnosed but I would hope that family and friends would read it as well and help the sufferer on their road to improved health.I also appreciate the many resources for help it includes.

.Depression
Shared the book with my Doctor. He wanted a copy. Working with him on gradual removal of the drug Wellbutrin. Substituting nutrients recommended by the book.

this book gives hope!
my husband is bipolar and has had a hell of a year.pharmies didnt seem to be working to well and we were getting desparate.this book was very informational and gave me a sense of hope.by working with a psychiatrist and a natropath we are finally beginning to see some real change.

Healing Depression & Bipolar Disorder Without Drugs
Half-way through book. Introduction provides excellent insight into the differences between how natural & pharmaceutical treatments are viewed and researched in the United States, and how this impacts those who need them. This is one of the most important parts of the book from the perspective of instilling insight to help you think differently than you have been, and move forward from there. The personal stories are situation specific, and I look forward to finishing the book to begin my personal journey.

Eye-opening book!
THis book really was great and made me change the way I think about my Bipolar and do something else about it without drugs persay. ... Read more