Product Description
Sugar & Salt: My Life with Bipolar Disorder is the story of an ordinary person who lived with and ultimately overcame bipolar disorder (manic-depression.). She was not diagnosed until she was 37. She describes what it is like to be raised in a family overshadowed by the illness, and to try to fit in in school and to function at work with the undiagnosed disorder. The failure of a marriage and relationships are detailed, and she struggles to understand why her life is so different and so difficult, until she has a sudden revelation that something is wrong with her and that she needs help. Then comes the long fight to get treatment as she tries medication after medication after being misdiagnosed as psychotic. For five years she seeks knowledge and understanding of the disorder that makes her suffer. In a dramatic turn, Jane realizes she must enter a mental hospital to get the treatment she needs. She describes life in a locked ward, and how her doctor finally finds the medication her disorder responds to. She feels she has been given the key that lets her out of the hell the mood disorder has kept her in all her life, and for the first time, she feels "normal." After the hospital, Jane has to face the world again and start a new life. She is able to work for years without her employers discovering her secret. However, after ten years, she develops an allergy to the medication that has served her so well and must start the process over again. During this process, she loses her dream job and falls back into depression. A story of ultimate triumph over bipolar disorder; find out how she did it and how you, too, can manage the disorder through medication and therapy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Defining One's Self Afflicted With Bipolar Disorder
I will be brief and say that the book was interesting and, while I was extremely sick before I found a doc that prescribed the correct meds, my Bipolar Disorder does not define who I am.It's merely a part the tapestry that is me.After I made my amends to those I hurt when I was so very ill, especially my husband and son, I made a pledge to God, my family and myself to do three things in order to keep myself on the right track. (1) Take my medicine, (2) Take my medicine, (3) Take my medicine.Those of us with Bipolar Disorder have a reputation for stopping our meds because our meds keep us "normal" and we miss the energy we used to have must fight that urge to remain "normal people" and resist that urge to go back to what we once were.

Bit of a disappointment
This was an okay read, but if you want insights into bipolar life read MANIC or AN UNQUIET MIND. This book gives some insight into aspects of the author's life but glosses over events that would help the reader understand bipolar issues more completely.

Wonderful insight into bipolar
Ms Thompson describes her life experiences as they relate to bipolar... in retrospect she is able to explain how her disease manifested itself and how greatly it affected her life.This is an excellent insight into bipolar disease and its insidious presence in the author's life and the lives of her friends and family.

Book should be renamed as "My Life...Oh And Oops, I'm Bi-Polar
This book sucks...no other way to state it.This book is hardly about bi-polar disorder but more about a women's feminist life and sexual discoveries during her college and beyond years.The author gives no clues during this story about how she suffers from the disease, she just sort of "pops" it in every so often in between boring accounts of her college days, and dating years and how she was very "modern" as a woman.This is a very boring biography of a person who may or may not have bi-polar as it is such a minor part of the entire story.

Can't wait - Type I or II?
I have not yet read this book, but hope that it is even half as good as "Invisible Driving" by Alistair McHarg.That book is about his personal experience with emphasis on the sad/hilarious manic episodes of Bipolar Disorder Type I, and is extremely well written (I would gladly read it even as a novel).

I can't wait to find out whether Ms. Thompson is Type I or Type II, as I am Type II and have seen very little written about it in a first person or in atechnical fashion.[Since Type II usually has none or very few episodes of full-blown mania, it is much more difficult to get a proper diagnosis]. ... Read more

Product Description
This therapist guide addresses the management of bipolar disorder. Divided into four phases, this 30-session program is designed to be used in conjunction with pharmacotherapy and focuses on helping the patient alleviate depressive episodes, form a support system of family and friends, focus on the most relevant problems outside of the disorder, and improve well-being. The program is based on the principles of CBT and includes such skills as cognitive restructuring, problem solving, mood charting, and activity scheduling. A major goal of the program is the creation of a treatment contract that informs the patient's treatment team and support network how to recognize possible periods of illness and the strategies they should use in order to help the patient during these times.

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

Product Description

Although our knowledge of mood disorders in general is expanding steadily, comparatively little is known about bipolar depression in particular. This book brings together leading clinicians and preclinical and clinical researchers to offer the most up-to-date information about the diagnosis, treatment, and research surrounding bipolar depression.

Early chapters provide valuable diagnostic information, and review the course, outcome, and genetics of this highly heritable condition, allowing clinicians to distinguish between the various mood disorders. The book offers a thorough and unique overview of the neurobiology of the disorder, including what is known from recent neuroimaging work. Several chapters delineate the treatment of bipolar depression in special populations such as children and pregnant women, and another chapter addresses the particular issues of suicide, focusing on the need for assessment during both acute and maintenance treatment with interventions appropriate to a patient's symptoms and history. Finally, the book covers acute and long-term treatment strategies for bipolar depression, including both traditional and novel therapeutics for the disorder, as well as non-pharmacological treatments.

This book has assembled a widely respected group of preclinical and clinical researchers who bring their expertise to bear upon this illness. It offers researchers, clinicians, and postgraduate students key insights into this devastating disorder.

Product Description
With proper diagnosis and early intervention, there is unlimited hope for children and teens diagnosed with bipolar disorder to lead fulfilling and enjoyable lives, starting today.

Inside, you’ll discover compassionate and informative methods to help manage the diagnosis and develop the natural strengths, gifts, and skills that every child has to offer. Written by a top expert in the field, this life-changing book is presented in clear, straightforward language that dispels the myths about bipolar disorder and offers real solutions. You’ll uncover keen insight and the latest options for helping your bipolar child or teen by understanding:

* The causes of bipolar disorder
* The path and outcome of bipolar disorder in children and teens
* The latest biological treatments and psychosocial therapies, and how to use them
* How to handle behavioral and academic problems, as well as assess and manage suicidal tendencies
* And much more ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good basic information
I am not the parent of a child with bipolar disorder, so I cannot comment on how useful this book is for parents trying to help a bipolar child.However, as a general reader, I found this book to have good basic information.It was easy to read, not at all too technical for the non medically trained person.In fact, I thought that at times the author could have gone into more detail on particular topics.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for easy to read, entry-level info on pediatric bipolar disorder.

Essential reading for parents
Dr. Birmaher has been treating kids and adolescents and doing research on pediatric bipolar disorder for many years, and speaks from both clinical experience and from research findings.Contains current info on treatment, and many tips for how parents can get the help their children need and reduce stress and increase flexibility.One of the best books available for parents on the topic.

Your ticket of entry to best possible care
Professor Birmaher's book represents the latest in scientific understanding and clinical approaches for recognizing and responding to Bipolar Disorder in children and teens. A researcher of note, Professor Birmaher has been able to translate the most up-to-date research data into a supportive, simple and effective text for concerned parents and others wanting to take the best course of action. The inclusion of clear and detailed diagnostic advice, treatment and management strategies, and test instruments makes 'New Hope for Children and Teens with Bipolar Disorder' an accessible foundation text for both new and experienced clinicians working with young people. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Book.Highlt recommend
As someone who suffers from Bipolar Disorder I found this found to be of great help not only for me but for my entire support system of family and friends. ... Read more

Product Description
Based on the author's personal recovery experience, this book provides hope for patients who want to end months or years of suffering by following the right path. It is a perfect guide for the 20 million depression and bipolar disorder sufferers and the 100 million plus people who support them.

Why It Is Recommended That You Buy Two Or More Copies Of This Book

\227 To Share It With Your Doctor & Supporters \227

Owning two copies of this book is recommended because it is immensely effective in teaching your friends and family members how to help you beat your depression or bipolar disorder. I know how difficult it is to get people to understand your disorder. That is why I have written a special chapter specifically for your family and friends to read.

This special chapter will not only teach your family and friends how to help you, it will also inspire them to want to help you. Plus, since most people end up reading the whole book after reading this one chapter, they will gain a new understanding about what you are going through. One supporter recently wrote me to say that she bought eight copies after reading the book, because she knew how much it would help other family members to understand the disorder.

There is also a special chapter written specifically for your doctor (or therapist). I believe it is important for your doctor to know that you are serious about taking responsibility for your own treatment efforts. Giving them a copy of this book will not only send them this message, it will also show them how you prepare to beat your depression or bipolar disorder using the 3-step formula taught in this book. One of my readers told me she gave a copy to her doctor, and four days later her doctor had recommended the book to five other patients. I hope more doctors share such compassion for their patients. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

pretty basic
This is an educational book that provides the basic information of bipolar. It is very easy read. If you are knowledgeable of bipolar disorder, it isn't a book that you will gain much knowledge from.I wouldn't recommend it as their are numerous other books that cover this topic extensively.

This book is encouraging and gives you hope!
It's an easy read and the author helps you identify with another who is depressed. That helps you know you're not alone. I have purchased 2 other books for friends and gave my copy to someone to help them. I highly recommend.

Will help some people
The author and I agree philosophically that moderate to severe depression or bipolar disorder is probably best treated with medication.However, the lack of solid information about psychotherapy in this book is something I don't agree with.And the quality of writing isn't that great, either.Nonetheless, the author has a somewhat unique approach to treating mental illness that is worth hearing.Avery Z. Conner, author of "Fevers of the Mind".

Win the Battle : The 3-Step Lifesaving Formula to Conquer De
This is a great book to read. It is very easy to understand. Once I started, I had to finish it that night. I lived with a person for 15 years that suffered from bi-polar-I wish I could have read this 15 years ago. I think the most important lesson that I got from this book is never give up trying. If you give up hope, then you have indeed lost. Bob Olson never gave up and now I hope others will benefit from his story. I highly recommend it.

A first aid kit!!!
Thank God there are people like Bob out there to share their
horror and glory stories.This book is a keeper for anyone
that knows anyone with depression. Its a first aid kit.
Get-it! Read-it! keep-it!
Or Pass it on! But I hardly doubt you'll want to. ... Read more

Product Description
Bipolar depression is now known to exist as a spectrum of disorders rather than a single disease entity. Bipolar II Disorder exists on this spectrum as a condition where the depressive episodes are as severe as in Bipolar I Disorder, but where the mood elevation states are not as extreme. This unexpected combination can lead to a failure to detect a condition thought to affect up to 6% of the population. This book reviews, for the first time, our knowledge of this debilitating disorder, covering its history, classification and neurobiology. In a unique section, fourteen internationally recognized experts debate management strategies, building to some consensus, and resulting in treatment guidelines where no such advice currently exists. It should be read by all health professionals managing mood disorders and will be informative to those wishing to learn more about the condition. ... Read more

Product Description
Bipolar disorder is the most complex psychiatric disorder with different types of mood episodes, subtypes, varied course, and significant co-morbidity. Not surprisingly, this complexity poses unique challenges to clinicians for optimal management of those with bipolar disorder.

There has been an explosion of research into the causes and treatment of this condition over the past two decades. It is a daunting task for a practising clinician to make sense of this research and to remain up to date with progress in the understanding of the neurobiology and treatment of bipolar disorder. This book synthesizes and translates the vast array of research knowledge into information that is clinically relevant and meaningful for a clinician.

The book provides a comprehensive, yet focused, reference work on bipolar disorder for both trainees and practising psychiatrists. The two editors are leaders in the field who have published extensively on bipolar disorder. They have assembled a team of experts from around the world: in many instances, chapters are co-authored by people from different continents, bringing a truly international perspective to this important topic. The book covers the basic science of the pathology underlying bipolar disorder but addresses the clinical aspects of the disease throughout.

The book comprises four sections:

• Descriptive Aspects—issues ranging from how the concept of bipolar disorder has evolved over the years to new information about neurocognitive impairment, creativity and economic productivity, and to discussion of the deliberations of the DSM-V committee on changes in diagnostic categories and criteria.

• Biology—the contribution of genes to this disorder, changes in circadian rhythms, what we know about brain changes and the role of oxidative stress.

• Biological Treatment and Psychosocial Treatment— all the latest information about pharmacological and psychological treatments and the optimal management of this condition.

If you want to provide state-of-the-art care to your bipolar patients, be sure to consult this authoritative reference. ... Read more

Product Description
Every day can be an ordeal for families struggling with the difficult, moody, "impossible" behavior that may point to childhood depression or bipolar disorder. Effective help for kids does exist, but it often requires a customized combination of medication, therapy, coping skills, and support. From esteemed clinician and researcher Dr. Mary Fristad and fellow treatment expert Dr. Jill Goldberg Arnold, this indispensable book explains how treatment works and what additional steps parents can take at home to help children with mood disorders--and the family as a whole--improve the quality of their lives. Explained are why symptoms look so different (and can be so much harder to manage) in children and teens than in adults, how to find the right doctor or therapist, and how to help kids develop their own "coping toolkits." Bursting with practical tools, FAQs, and examples, the book covers everything from dealing with medical crises to resolving school problems, sibling conflicts, and marital stress.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Informed, humane, experienced advice
This book is so well informed and engagingly written that I read it in a way I almost never read `advice' books: start to finish. It begins by dispelling the myths that keep moody children from getting help, moves to identifying different problems and their severity, and then lays out recent research as to the causes of disorders. Parts II and III discuss getting treatment ("Who are the players in the system?" is a particularly useful section for the uninitiated, as are sections on managing medication and making the right judgment about therapy) and "Helping Your Child to Cope"--sixty pages of clear and humane advice. (This section includes everything from understanding the law regarding educational services to managing dire crises.) Part IV addresses the affect that mood disorders can have on a family, once again offering practical suggestions that are never without the conceptual rigor that drives the book. Engaging examples of children who seem like real human beings, not specimens, are put forward in every chapter. The authors' thirty years of collective experience in working with families shows.

My favorite section is found in Chapter Five, "Getting the Big Picture." After having shown the main difficulties in sorting out a child's mood problems, the authors suggest some "rules to live by." Given how complicated mood disorders can be, you might wonder how the general "rules" here could be correlated to the "problems." Here is an example. "As you learned in Chapter 4, children's mood disorders often come with associated problems or co-occuring disorders. Families we've worked with have found it helpful to think about their problems as falling into separate `piles.'" The authors then give examples of children with more than one problem and explain how these can be best managed by distinguishing them. "One pile may be left alone in a corner until other piles are dealt with." We do this (and fail to do this) all the time in other spheres of life. Have you ever burnt something on the stove because you're talking on the phone? In the world of emotion, however, multi-tasking becomes more treacherous. The problems of a disturbed child will seem overwhelming unless you learn how to look at each problem separately. The authors have a gift for teaching parents how to break things down without losing a sense of the child as a whole person.

Julia Brown

Raising a Moody Child is no easy task
This book was helpful in describing different types of biploar disorders.
It also described how people have adjusted to and accepted the mood swings their children go thru while dealing with medication trial and errors. Every child is different and there is no cut and dried "recipe" for bipolarity treatment.
It was most helpful for me in deciding to purchase this book to "look inside" the book. Being able to view the table of contents and an excerpt from the book helped me decide if this book was the help I was looking for. And it was.
The book also described how the entire family is affected and their involvment in the solutions, which I found to be helpful to know we were not alone in our struggles.

Wow!Someone else understands us completely!
I just bought this book and received it yesterday, and it's already making an impact in my life.I can't believe that someone else's family has gone through exactly what we're going through with one of our kids.I'm looking forward to getting a lot of help and great ideas from this book, and hoping to learn to cope better with my moody child, without so many feelings of guilt in the process.

A Must Read
Although The Bipolar Child had great insight as to why my child was diagnosed ADHD at 6 and then rediagnosed Bipolar at age 14, I found this book to be extremely helpful as to what needs to follow now that my son is Bipolar.I have to agree with one of the other reviews written, that this book contains information parents are "assumed" to already know, when in fact, we do not.If you have a child suffering from Bipolar or depression, I highly recommend reading this book.

Great book for parents.
I work as an inpatient clinician on a child/adolescent unit.This book answers the questions and gives the guidance I am frequently asked for.Clearly it is a book that was written by very knowledgable professionals who have a compasionate understanding for what the overwhelmed parents of these children need. It is clearly written and full of practical advice and useful tools. I strongly recommend it for anyone with a child/teen with a mood problem.If you know one of these parents-buy it as a gift for them-they are probably too busy dealing with their life to get it for themselves. ... Read more

Product Description
The most practical and current resource for children and teens affected by bipolar disorder.

A practicing psychiatrist specializing in bipolar disorder for nearly twenty years, Dr. Burgess has helped countless children and teens navigate the minefield of mania and depression and lead successful, happy lives. Drawing on the real questions asked by patients and parents and families of affected children, The Bipolar Handbook for Children, Teens, and Families tackles every area of the disorder: causes; medical treatment and psychotherapy; strategies for creating a healthy lifestyle; and preventing, coping with, and treating bipolar episodes. More than five hundred questions and answers address:

• how to choose the right doctor or specialist for your child;
• what treatment and medication protocols are best; and
• how to reduce stress to prevent manic and depressive episodes.

Special chapters on practical strategies for academic success, building healthy relationships, issues that specifically affect teens versus smaller children, and coping techniques for families and friends further explore the impact of the disorder on daily life. The Bipolar Handbook for Children, Teens, and Families also includes diagnostic criteria from the American Psychiatric Association and the National Institute of Mental Health, making this a versatile guide—perfect for both quick reference and in-depth study. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Superb book for parents
Just got this book today, and have finished already. Exceptionally clear, well-written, and very helpful. (BTW: I am an MD with a Master's in psychology.) If you have any question about whether your child may be bipolar, this book will help immensely. It covers treatments, medical and otherwise, and discusses behavioral approaches, selection of psychiatrists, everything you could want to know.
Highly recommended.

Excellent resource for parents of children with Bipolar Disorder
Dr. Burgess' book 'The Bipolar Handbook' is a wonderful resource. His new book 'The Bipolar Handbook for Children, Teens, and Families' is also a wonderful resource and a priceless help for parents of children with bipolar disorder.
The question and answer format is so easy to read and provides short, direct, and specific answers to specific questions. No long and drawn out chapters that confuse with involved medical explanations.
Dr. Burgess has my deep gratitude and appreciation for writing such a helpful and comforting book for families trying to raise a child with bipolar disorder.

Most helpful book on bipolar in teens
Thank goodness for Dr. Burgess! He's got another great book on bipolar disorder - this one focusing on kids and teens.I have a brother who has a bipolar teen and we've read all the books on manic depression. This one he acturlly read together with his son! She said that the book really does have answers to his and his son's questions about his pills and therapy. They spoke to his doctors and and they have a new plan for him based on Dr. Burgess's book.I think he's feeling better already! In addition to the medical and psychological explanations, this book has really practical solutions to Phil's problems with school and my brother's problems with his behavior. Phil told me it answered some questions he had about his friends and his girlfriend. Also it has therapy worksheets to help with his depression.

My brother understaqnds much more about what bipolar feels like now. What I like the most is that my brother's relationship with his son is getting better. He says its like having him back again, and I feel that way to. Whastever you do, pick up Dr. Burgess' book. We recommend it.

... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

informative
This book is too similar to his other book "Bipolar 11" but still very informative.

Dense content
Complex subject, this is not a book for novices.It contains information that is helpful, but is resistant to analysis by laypersons.This is a good book on a timely topic, I just need a "Cliff Notes" version.

I've yet to get my significant other to read as well - which might make all the difference.

... Read more

Product Description

Tried everything but still not feeling better?

If your depression keeps coming back or is even getting worse, then you may be suffering from bipolar II or “soft” bipolar disorder. Commonly misdiagnosed, these mood disorders are characterized by recurring bouts of depression along with anxiety, irritability, mood swings, sleep problems, or intrusive thoughts.

Why Am I Still Depressed? shows you how to identify if you have a nonmanic form of bipolar disorder and how to work with your doctor to safely and effectively treat it.

Author James R. Phelps, M.D., gives you the latest tools and knowledge so you can:

• Understand the Mood Spectrum, a powerful new tool for diagnosis
• Know all your treatment options, including mood-stabilizing medications and research-tested psychotherapies
• Examine the potential hazards of taking antidepressant medications
• Manage your condition with exercise and lifestyle changes
• Help family and friends with this condition understand their diagnosis and find treatment

Customer Reviews (55)

Great hopeful book
I thought this book was wonderful, and especially good for a whole family to read to help understand this condition.Hopefully this will help us draw closer as a family and work together.Would definately recomend as a good friend recomended it to us.Great price on the book and came in a timely manner.

Good overview of this type of bipolar.
I had read other books recommended by my therapist/psychiatrist but they dealt more with the typical bipolar I disorder.I felt nothing really focused in on what was wrong with me.This book was exactly what I have been dealing with with bipolar II and it was a breath of fresh air to hear other stories.The recommendations for non medication modalities in dealing with the disorder have helped immensely as they have tried to regulate my meds.I would highly recommend this book.The author often refers to an online reference he has for additional info which I have not yet had a chance to look into.

Amazing
I am a Psychiatrist, very interested in mood disorders, I got to this book firt by reading Dr. Phelps web page, which I strongly recomend to everybody, Its just amazing, I never have read anything with that capacity of clarity, he is abble to make look easy the more complicated topics, like the biology of mood disorders,chronoterapy approches,treatment,etc.. I live in Colombia and work in a Mental Health's Hospital and one of my collegues saw the book and I think delayed one hour all of his activities just reading.. as he said ,this book is addictive.. I think the author has one of the smartest way to conceptualize mental disorders I ever read, I am very satisfied to have buyed the book , I am waiting to have the kindle version.

Why am I still depressed? Recognizing & managing the ups & downs of bipolar& soft bipolaar disorder
This book is written for in a very understable way.No big words we don't understand & no blame or shame with this disorder.So much information we never knew or understood untill this was written by James Phelps. Would recomnmend this book for a better understanding of depression & learn of all the help there is for a person & family.

Very Helpful
For a person who recently was diagnosed with Bipolar II, I found this book to be full of useful information. Well written and easy to read i would recommend it to anyone with BPII. ... Read more

Product Description

This provocative history of bipolar disorder illuminates how perceptions of illness, if not the illnesses themselves, are mutable over time. Beginning with the origins of the concept of mania -- and the term maniac -- in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, renowned psychiatrist David Healy examines how concepts of mental afflictions evolved as scientific breakthroughs established connections between brain function and mental illness. Healy recounts the changing definitions of mania through the centuries, explores the effects of new terminology and growing public awareness of the disease on culture and society, and examines the rise of psychotropic treatments and pharmacological marketing over the past four decades. Along the way, Healy clears much of the confusion surrounding bipolar disorder even as he raises crucial questions about how, why, and by whom the disease is diagnosed.

Drawing heavily on primary sources and supplemented with interviews and insight gained over Healy's long career, this lucid and engaging overview of mania sheds new light on one of humankind's most vexing ailments.

Customer Reviews (4)

Good basics....wish it went further
I loved this book for its history on mania but wish it went further to discuss how it impacts today's bipolar "craze".I think too many people are diagnosed with bipolar.As a psychiatrist with the disorder, I greatly enjoyed reading the book and recommend it for patients and physicians alike!

This information must get to the main public now.
This book needs to be read and be text in all study of this phenomenom called Bipolar, by all the Doctors, including Psychiatrists,' Psychologists,' Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners,'& Mental Health Counselors, whomever has diagnosed this disorder, and all who may eventually diagnose any pharmaceutical really. The AMA, researchers and developers, academics, and marketers may be suspect, perhaps even our economy.

Big Pharm and Junk Science
David Healy is a professor of psychiatry at Cardiff University; in clear, jargon free prose he writes the history of mental illness, how our concepts and treatments of mental disorders have changed. He believes that history is part of the scientific process because by examining our beliefs and how they have changed we challenge them; he ridicules those like Fukuyama who believe that history has come to an end since the underlying notion of the end of history as well as the public relations departments of the pharmaceutical companies is that our practices are perfect and need never change. As evidence of the contrary, Healy notes, among many examples,such contemporary barbarism as the "treatment" of a 4 year old and a 2 year old with psychotropic drugs that resulted in their deaths.
Transnational corporations did not enter the mental illness market until after WWII. Among other things, WWII brought a paradigm shift in how disease was treated. Drugs such as antibiotics became the focus of all treatments, including mental illness. Chemical companies saw huge profits in drugs and spun off new drug companies which have become the most profitable corporate entities worldwide. As part of this history, much of the early focus on creating new drugs was the exploration of chemical dyes used in the chemical industry and to this day there are many drugs which resulted from that research. In order to maintain their profits, the drug companies aka "Big Pharm" have turned the science of mental health into junk. This is a partial list of how the pharmaceutical companies market their products:
1. They create associations for mental health care professionals and fund their publications;
2. The associations they fund not only serve to promote their products but to create consensus and guidelines to force doctors to use their costly patented products, rather than older generics, or face exposure to lawsuit regardless of whether or not the older products may be at least as effective as the new;
3. Not only do the pharmaceuticals fund existing publications, they help create new ones to promote drugs for new mental disorders;
4. The creation of new disorders is so rapid that a professor of psychiatry at John Hopkins complained that eventually everyone would be designated as mentally ill and looked forward to a mental illness that would include fat, short men of Irish descent, such as himself;
5. In order to ensure a demand for their new drugs, the pharmaceuticals actively promote self help or confessional books by non professionals on the latest mental illness, including publicity hand outs to mainstream outlets such as Time magazine and the New York Times;
6. Not only do the pharmaceuticals fund clinical trials for FDA approval but they suppress clinical trials that do not support licensing of their drugs;
7. Pharmaceuticals ghostwrite publications signed by leading academics for publication in respected medical journals;
8. Pharmaceuticals have dropped using salesmen and women to promote their products and rely upon academics because the academics are cheaper and more effective with doctors;
9. Pharmaceuticals directly market to consumers and entice them to visit their websites and to use rating scales which lead the consumer to believe that he or she has the disorder requiring the use of their expensive, patented drug; and,
10. Pharmaceuticals have no interest in researching drugs that might alleviate major diseases such as AIDS in the poorer parts of the world; instead, they focus on lifestyle drugs such as Viagra for the relatively well to do.
So what is the result of the junk science of mental illness? The astonishing fact is that unique among illnesses in the Western World, the life expectancy for patients with serious mental illness has declined. In some parts of the first world, rates of suicide for the seriously mental ill have increased ten fold.

A lire de toute urgence
Ce que nous démontre brillamment David Healy dans ce livre, en s'appuyant sur le cas particulier de l'histoire, extrêmement bien documentée, du trouble bipolaire, c'est que le savoir psychiatrique d'aujourd'hui, celui qui est partagé par les médecins comme celui qui est diffusé dans le grand public, s'apparente à une pseudo-science. Cette dernière modifie profondément la représentation que avons de nous-mêmes alors qu'elle n'est orientée que par la nécessité pour les firmes d'obtenir des autorisations de mise sur le marché et par des contraintes de marketing visant à étendre au maximum la commercialisation de tel ou tel psychotrope (en incluant les enfants dès leur plus jeune âge, au besoin).
C'est toute une logique de type marchande qui met à son service les soignants et fait peser un risque sur les patients, en réduisant la pratique des soins à l'échange d'un produit de consommation, clairement délimité et en élaguant de ce fait tout ce qui n'entre pas dans ce cadre, principalement le rapport humain et l'engagement dans la durée auprès des patients.
Ce livre est tout à fait essentiel et doit être lu de toute urgence par tous ceux qui sont concernés par ces questions et qui espèrent que la médecine en général et la psychiatrie en particulier cessent de dériver.
... Read more

Product Description
2.3 million Americans, approximately 1.2% of the U.S. population, suffer from bipolar disorder and nearly 1 million Canadians suffer from severe and persistent mental illness. Mental disorders are now recognized to rival major physical diseases as the leading cause of economic, physical, and psychological burdens worldwide. Stephen Hinshaw's compelling account of his father's life-long struggle with bipolar disease reveals the isolation, confusion, hopelessness, and destruction of serious mental illness that patients and their families experience. Hinshaw, an academic psychologist, incorporates the range of factors that contribute to serious mental disorder, as well as issues of self-image, resilience, diagnosis and treatment. His belief that devastating and even debilitating life experiences can yield strength, gentleness, and resilience is reflected in the compassionate description of his father's life. Stephen P. Hinshaws Professor of Psychology and former Director of the Clinical Science program at the University of California, Berkeley. He has authored over 120 articles, chapters and reviews and is the author of the book, Attention Deficits and Hyperactivity in Children (Sage, 1994). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A compelling biography in the context of society's larger story
As the other reviews here accurately explain, this slim volume encompasses much more than an insightful look at how his father's long-misdiagnosed mental illness affected the author and his family. That would be quite enough.

Yet, while some scholarly writers have one idea and puff it out in volume after volume, Dr. Hinshaw deftly delivers much more than the title suggests,weaving autobiography and biography, this country's checkered history in diagnosing and treating bi-polar disorder, the genetic and environmental factors of brain disorders, personal insights and scientific data, and much more.

That Dr. Hinshaw pulls this off so cogently and compellingly for the layperson strikes me as remarkable, given that he is a highly respected academic, clinical scientist, andprofessor who chairs the prestigious department of psychology at the University of California, Berkeley.

As a lay volunteer in the AD/HD community,I first learned of Dr. Hinshaw through his contributions to a landmark study on ADHD in children.In my experience, it is rare to find a psychologist who can help the average person bridge the knowledge gap between behavior and neuroscience, and I am grateful for this window to understanding.

This is the first in Dr. Hinshaw's outstanding trilogy examining stigma around mental illness--and how our society might go about easing it. The other two books are The Mark of Shame: Stigma of Mental Illness and an Agenda for Changeand Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Professionals Disclose Their Personal and Family Experiences of Mental Illness

Gina Pera

A rare portrait of human development
Stephen Hinshaw demonstrated exceptional courage and scholarship in this passionately written portrayal of his father's struggle with bipolar disorder. Blending scientific perspectives with personal insights, Hinshaw provides a tour of his father's obstacles and triumphs. It is a compelling story about the far reaching implications of severe psychopathology yet it is firmly rooted in inspiring messages of hope and resilience. Hinshaw somehow manages to find the appropriate "voice" with personal accounts narrated within a larger context of science, philosophy, and public policy. It is exemplary in its passion, analysis, and vision for the future.

an excellent bipolar biography
This is an excellent book that anyone interested in bipolar disorder or mental illness in general should read.Hinshaw is an excellent writer and brings the details of his father's struggle with bipolar disorder richly to life.The effects of the disease on his father's entire existence are profound and complex- many details and nuances of the illness are described.The book is partly an indictment of the entire mental health field for not providing better care for his father.An interesting and complex read.Avery Z. Conner, author of "Fevers of the Mind".

Get This Book for Everyone You Know
This is one of the best books on any topic I have read lately.Anyone who knows anyone with a psychological problem (that's all of you with a pulse, by the way), should read The Years of Silence are Past. The title refers to the silence that descended on Stephen Hinshaw's family in the face of his father's bipolar illness (manic-depression).The book is so resonant becausecountless families with a mentally ill family member live with the same deafening silence.Hinshaw manages to tell the story of his father's battle with bipolar disorder in a compelling, compassionate, unflinching way while also communicating clearly and thus educating about this devastating illness.This book puts a human face on a problem that is too often still stigmatized in our society.I hope this book will help put an end to the collective silence that amplifies the stigma and associated pain for people with mental illness and their famlies.I also hope it leads people with mental illness to seek and benefit from treatment. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (12)

very helpful!
This book answered all my questions! Answered questions I wouldn't have thought to ask! Gave ideas and tips of things to ask doctors about! Very helpful.I didn't feel the need to look any further!

This book is a practical and informative guide.
I bought this book to help me handle my child who was actually not diagnosed with bipolar, but rather with asperger disorder + mood disorder not defined (one day his diagnose might be changed to bipolar).
I bought this book with the idea that the same or identical stuff that works for the everyday struggle (not medical) with bipolar kids should work for any severe mood disorder, and indeed I found it to be an excellent guide.

Kindle Edition, less than perfect
This book is an excellent resource for parents of bipolar kids.If it had only been available when I was raising my granddaughter, both of us would have been spared a lot of grief.It is a must read for parents whose children are being labeled as ADD/ADHD by the schools and encouraged (if not required) to drug the kids with Ritalin.Luckily, I stood my ground about the Ritalin, but every school she attended subtly accused me of being a poor parent for not caving in to their recommendations.They ignored at least two evaluations showing no sign of ADD/ADHD.

My only objection to the Kindle edition is that the checklists in the appendices apparently cannot be enlarged.They would be very helpful -- if I could see them clearly.

A fantastic resource for parents of bipolar kids
Dr. Pavuluri's book is the #1 resource I will go to when I have questions about anything related to bipolar disorder in kids.My daughter, now 13, was diagnosed with bipolar 2years ago. Anyone dealing with this knows the confusion, frustration, heart break, exhaustion, etc. that goes hand in hand with this disorder.
Thankfully, Dr. Pavuluri has gifted us with an easy to read, encouraging, hopeful, and realistic guide to help parents navigate thru the difficult times as well as take joy in the special and unique children that we have been blessed with. Dr. Pavuluri's years of experience as director of the bipolar clinic at UIC in Chicago is evident in the wealth of information and expertise that she presents in this book. For me, personally, her chapter on medications , their descriptions, usage,dosage, etc. has been an enormous help.I feel confident knowing that she has years of experience using these medications with kids, and she clearly explains the pros and cons of each medication used in treating bipolar in kids.
You can not go wrong in purchasing this book .Keep it on your shelf and refer to it often.
Thank you Dr. Pavuluri for your book and all the help that you offer to parents ofchildren diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Kathleen Kuper
Mokena, Illinois

The BEST Bipolar Kid Book Available!
I've got a library full of books about bipolar in children, but this is now my favorite and the first one I consult when questions arise.When I read this book for the first time, I immediately realized that Dr. Pavluri understands, better than anyone else I've encountered, what it is like to live with and love a child who suffers from early-onset bipolar disorder. Her commitment, compassion and genius really come through. In particular, I found that the book contains lots of specifics-- e.g., a treatment algorithmand specific examples of how and when to talk to (or not talk to) your child. She clearly understands the difficulty that many of us have getting our friends and family to understand and support our efforts on behalf of our children. In fact, I have prepared an information sheet for such people, which includes several excerpts from the book related to discipline ("Johnny never has any problems when he's with me. You just need to show him who's in charge.") and variable symptom presentation ("If she can keep it together at school, then she can keep it together at home.") This book is so fabulous that it makes me wish we lived in Chicago and could work with Dr. Pavluri in person. ... Read more

Product Description
Bipolar Disorder is becoming a worldwide epidemic. Ken Jensen is a Marine Gulf War vet who overcame it. Inside, you will find his life story focusing on the parts that helped lead him into the nightmare that is bipolar disorder. He was moderately to severely ill for eight years and even landed in a two-week coma from it. Frustrated with how doctors seemed unable to help him, and facing mounting health crises, he struck out on his own and developed an all-natural system to heal himself. He got his life and his sanity back. This book details that journey and includes the system he still follows to maintain his good health. Thousands have gone on to happy, fulfilling lives just by following the first step, alone. But some have a longer list of traumas that need to be addressed. Ken was one of these folks and he found the additional tools to get his life back on track, then, go on to excel and help others do the same. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Very interesting
This book is rather shocking re: the author's drug and alcohol use, but it helps to show how far he has come with his recovery and treatment.I'm especially hopeful with regard to his treatment plan.I've shared the book with a family member who is an alcoholic and a willing "guinea pig" of the psychiatric/pharmaceutical world. The author's treatment plan is logical and certainly preferable to the current standard of treatment for Bi-Polar disorder.

A Tremendous book for anyone with Bipolar Disorder
Ken Jensen has written an excelent book for anyone suffering from bipolar disorder or depression. The first half of his book is so different from the second half it almost seems that it is written by two different people. This shows you the tremendous change that has occured in Jensen's life. Basically, the first half of the book traces the early life of Jensen and his development of bipolar disorder. In the second half he shows you how he overcamethe disease. He outlines a program consisting of appropriate nutrients, foods, exercise, stress management and so on that has been effective for him. It would, in fact, be useful for anyone wanting to improve their health. One of the major reasons the book would be useful to anyone with bipolar disorder is that it comes from someone who had the disease and it shows how he ovecame it. Indeed, it goes into considerable detail and gives several internet sites that are useful.
Well written and easy to read, the book is highly recommended.

Ken Has the Guts...and We Should Be Thankful!
The title of this book and website says it all: Ken's writing style pulls no punches and takes name tags!

As a chiropractor who's suffered migraines and mild bouts of depression, I didn't have anywhere near the problems that Ken experienced in his life, but certainly ran across my fair share of Bipolar people I could not help! The most glaring example was a former girlfriend of mine who committed suicide in 1984.I believe she would be alive today if this knowledge were available then.

Bipolar affects everyone.Ken's writing took me to the very core of this sadness, but he doesn't leave us there. He also provides answers that not only make sense but can save the lives of those who follow his simple advice!

A physiological problem demands physiological answers.Drugs only mask the problem and can cause more harm than good. The brain and body of a BP sufferer is starved for certain nutrients and Ken leaves no stone unturned in his quest for the perfect answer.

I also know from personal experience and research that changing the body's chemistry towards a more alkaline and stress-free state will significantly decrease pain while simultaneously improve ones overall feeling of well-being, perception, and actions.I eliminated my intense migraines after a month of alkalizing through meditation, greater water intake and massive doses of phyto-nutrients (greens) and have seen it done with countless other health problems.

This is the approach Ken takes, and I applaud his courage to put it out there.

This book will show you how to stop bipolar disorder in it's tracks.
If you're bipolar, or know someone who is then you know how terribly devastating and hopeless the diagnosis can seem.If you've run out of options, or you are newly diagnosed Ken's book should be your first stop.In "It Takes Guts to be Me: How an Ex Marine Beat Bipolar Disorder" you will see yourself in Ken, and his journey will resonate and inspire your own recovery process.

I've read just about every book on Bipolar Disorder, natural healing and everything in between.I can say with surety that Ken Jensen's advice and his own healing journey echo exactly what today's Scientists are discovering about brain health, and the multitude of alternative therapies and treatments that are gaining ground as solid and viable options for mentally ill people.His experiences and recommendations are real, and they are effective.I am living it right now, and though I'm only one year into my healing journey I now live in the light, and am thankful that Ken decided to write this book and help all of us suffering when we reach a dead end with pharmacology and psychiatry.

Ken Jensen shares not only his path out of the darkness, but he intimately bares his soul and reveals the pain, destruction and hopelessness of bipolar disorder.Not only is this brave, it's essential because people will see themselves in Ken and know just how desperate and real this disease is and how there is hope in recovery.His story is fascinating, shocking, familiar and absolutely amazing because in the end Ken wins.

Through my correspondence with Ken I can say the man he is today is productive, highly functioning, peaceful, calm, hopeful and alive.All the things people with bipolar disorder long to be.

I really believe in Ken Jensen, and his amazing story and I know it will help millions of people suffering right now who feel they've reached the bottom and have no way to get back to the land of the living.Read this book, and change your life, no one but you can make the change!

Please if you are suffering or know someone who is suffering from bipolar disorder read this book.It will no question change your life in a positive way and it might even save your life.

A fascinating, hard hitting, no punches pulled book!
Ken Jensen has written a fascinating, hard hitting, no punches pulled book on a very difficult subject. It Takes Guts To Be Me: How An Ex-Marine Beat Bipolarism is a must read for any person affected with bipolar disorder.

Ken's holistic approach has proven to be very successful and should be of great interest to all mental health professionals. Ken demonstrates tremendous courage, compassion, and commitment on his agonizing roller coaster journey and recovery from Bipolarism.

Ken is a highly passionate team player and absolutely devoted to helping others. "The love of brotherhood that I have with my Marines is built of stainless steel."

No matter what battle in life I may ever face, I want Ken Jensen on my team!

Dr. Larry Smith D.C.

Author of: Embracing the Journey of Recovery: From Tragedy to Triumph

http://www.embracingthejourneybook.com/

... Read more

Product Description
The revolution in psychiatry that began in earnest in the 1960s led to dramatic advances in the understanding and treatment of manic-depressive illness. Hailed as the most outstanding book in the biomedical sciences when it was originally published in 1990, Manic-Depressive Illness was the first to survey this massive body of evidence comprehensively and to assess its meaning for both clinician and scientist.It also vividly portrayed the experience of manic-depressive illness from the perspective of patients, their doctors, and researchers. Encompassing an understanding about the illness as Kraeplin conceived of it- about its cyclical course and about the essential unity of its bipolar and recurrent unipolar forms- the book has become the definitive work on the topic, revered by both specialists and nonspecialists alike.

Now, in this magnificent second edition, Drs. Frederick Goodwin and Kay Redfield Jamison bring their unique contribution to mental health science into the 21st century. In collaboration with a team of other leading scientists, a collaboration designed to preserve the unified voice of the two authors, they exhaustively review the biological and genetic literature that has dominated the field in recent years and incorporate cutting-edge research conducted since publication of the first edition. They also update their surveys of psychological and epidemiological evidence, as well as that pertaining to diagnostic issues, course, and outcome, and they offer practical guidelines for differential diagnosis and clinical management.The medical treatment of manic and depressive episodes is described, strategies for preventing future episodes are given in detail, and psychotherapeutic issues common in this illness are considered.Special emphasis is given to fostering compliance with medication regimens and treating patients who abuse drugs and alcohol or who pose a risk of suicide. This book, unique in the way that it retains the distinct perspective of its authors while assuring the maximum in-depth coverage of a vastly expanded base of scientific knowledge, will be a valuable and necessary addition to the libraries of psychiatrists and other physicians, psychologists, clinical social workers, neuroscientists, pharmacologists, and the patients and families who live with manic-depressive illness. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

The Authority
I am not a Doctor.The reason I purchased this book was because I wished to fully understand these sort of mood disorders.I have a disease that sorts along the spectrum of these disorders.

One of the truly effective ways you aid yourself is by developing insight to the greatest degree possible.Many of your deepest thoughts are NOT your own in the sense that they are an expression of the illness itself, symptoms as it were.

However this is a massive, professional work and you must be prepared for a considerable effort.

If you are beginning your self-discovery you might start with "Touched By Fire".

The course of recurring mood disorder is different in every individual but it progresses like Multiple Sclerosis over time and can easily cripple.Untreated, the outcome is likely very poor.

MD is the neurological disorder most likely to occur with Multiple Sclerosis.Both are genetic in origin and share many of the same disease causing genes

THE authoritative work on the subject
The second edition of this classic will provide more than any psychiatrist needs to know about Manic-
Depressive illness.

The Bipolar Bible.
This book is more important than the DSM and the ICD when it comes to Bipolar. It's mostly for professionals who have to deal with diagnosis and need to understand the illness. The writting style is overly accademic and cumbersome however it is the most useful and informative book around by a long shot. At around 1200 pages long, this is not a cover to cover quick read unless you have several months with nothing else to do.

Content of Textbook
This book is very thorough and gives an in depth look into the most recent research surrounding manic depressive disorder and depression. Starting with the history surrounding mental illness, moving along to diagnosis, prognosis, course of the illness', physiological, biochemical and anatomical changes that occur along with up to date research in it's genetic component, this book gives great insight into mood disorders.

Complete, comprehensive reading for bipolar disorder
Although a huge book along with a hefty price tag, this is probably the most up to date information on bipolar disorder (manic depression) available today. It offers a wealth of information that is usable to the clinician as well as the patient. In fact, I think this should be required reading for any clinician who deal with people with this condition.

I strongly urge the purchase of this book esp. for the consumer as self knowledge will be such an asset when communicating with your doctor. This book covers most everything from the most basic to the most complex information to date on this vexing condition. Though I am constantly searching the internet for the most up to date information on bipolar disease, I find the authors of this book to be the leading authorities presently. ... Read more

Product Description
Surviving Manic Depression is the most comprehensive, up-to-date book on the disorder that affects more than two million people in the United States alone. Based on the latest research, it provides detailed coverage of every aspect of the disorder.

All aspects of the disease are addressed: symptoms, with many direct descriptions from patients themselves, risk factors, onset and cause, medications (including drugs still in the testing stage), causes, psychotherapy, and rehabilitation and how the disease affects children and adolescents. Here too are discussions of special problems related to manic-depressive disorder, including alcohol and drug abuse, violent behavior, medication noncompliance, suicide, sex, AIDS, and confidentiality. Surviving Manic Depression also includes special features such as a listing of selected websites, videotapes, and other resources.Amazon.com Review
If knowing one's enemy is key to surviving a prolonged encounter, then Surviving Manic Depression should prove essential reading to those who suffer from this brain disease's horrific highs and lows. Having immersed themselves in the topic, E. Fuller Torrey, M.D., and Michael B. Knable, D.O., offer a comprehensive resource for those afflicted with--or responsible for treating--manic depression. Unfortunately, a surprisingly small amount of data exists regarding its prevalence, and existing studies show conflicting results.

Torrey and Knable's emphasis on dissecting all that is known about the disease clearly indicates that "survival" entails neither escape nor eradication; rather, it requires a lifelong pledge to undertake an effective course of treatment. The first step: learning every suspected cause, symptom, risk factor, and treatment strategy. Sprinkled among statistic-laden paragraphs, touches of empathy arrive via articulate quotations from sufferers including Patty Duke and Kay Jamison. But the crux of Torrey and Knable's work is its compilation of all the informative bits and pieces readers need to build an effective action plan. Most helpful are the chapters that address special problems (including alcohol and drug abuse, violent behavior, medication noncompliance, and the seduction of mania); and their no-holds-barred reviews of books, selected Web sites, and videotapes. --Liane Thomas ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Best I've found to help patients and families
This is the best resource for patients and their families. It is a "must read" for anyone involved with the complicated MH field. I have loaned mine out numerous times and the person usually ends up buying their own copy. It's a no nonsense informative book that allows people to read the many aspects of the disease. Dr. Torrey is an excellant advocate for families and patients. It gives suggestions tofamilies when their loved one is having trouble. If hospitalization is involved Torrey introduces the patient and family with many options they could explore. There is a section that includes websites and other resources which give support, advocacy and not to forget; the continual updates on the disease. I've worked in the MH field for many years and it is one book I constantly go back to for guidance.This book not only provides information it gives encouragement and hope. That is the most important message of all: there is hope.

Surviving manic depression
Arrived quickly and in great shape. Will be a good resource book for work I do.

Survival guide for bipolar
All of that information I already obtain throu the Internet saits. The book was nothing to do about reality of surviving-only main information about desease and main information (very old, thouh, it is another level of medicine already exist , for exsample, abilify). Nothing new for me, mother of bipolar child, who declines her medical help. Again, nothing about SURVIVING. Sorry, Natalia Seregin.

Manual on Bipolar Disorder
This is a really helpful book. Great for trying to learn about this disorder and being supportive. Also very good for helping yourself understand better what's going on with your loved one with this disorder. Very, very good book. The other reviews were extremely helpful in my decision to buy this book.

Not so fun to read but some good information
Although there is a lot of good information in this book, getting beyond the first chapter is a challenge.When you begin reading, there is no engaging narrative style, just a series of subtitles with factual information underneath.If you are like me, this isn't the first information you are looking for...statistics on how many people have the disease (depends upon when and how you define it)...statistics on how many people are being treated in urban vs. rural settings...To make a long story short, this book does not grab you at all.You have to push through, as if you were reading an academic paper, to get information.There are no uplifting case histories referred to throughout the book that keep you interested (cases mentioned are usually one or two paragraph examples).Nor are there any new theories presented here - just a disjointed summary of the (disappointing) research that has been done thus far.The medication section is not up to date, since there was no mention of Lamictal as a treatment.I bought this book because of the good review here on Amazon, and was somewhat disappointed, so I felt compelled to add me own feelings for the benefit of those who might do the same. ... Read more

Product Description
There are over 10 million people whose lives are touched by bipolar disorder in our country alone, many of them Christians. If you have bipolar disorder and have struggled with questions such as, "Why hasn't God healed me of my bipolar disorder?" "Is there something wrong with my faith?" or "Am I a bad Christian?" then you are not alone. Michele also struggled with these and other questions regarding her bipolar disorder, yet found comfort and inspiration in the Scriptures. In this devotional journal, she shares with you those Scriptures as well as her own struggle with bipolar disorder and the recovery that she enjoys today. ... Read more