The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide

Over 275,000 bipolar sufferers and their loved ones have found the crucial information and support they need in this indispensable guide, now in a thoroughly updated third edition. Trusted authority David J. Miklowitz explains the nature and causes of bipolar illness and provides science-based strategies for coping with mood episodes, reducing recurrences, avoiding misdiagnosis, getting the most out of medications and psychotherapy, and making lifestyle changes to stay well. Readers love the easy-to-understand tone, vivid stories, practical tools, and problem-solving advice, including ways to strengthen relationships strained by the illness.

David J. Miklowitz, PhD, is Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, and Visiting Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom. He is author of The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide and Living Well with Bipolar Disorder, for general readers, and several award-winning books for professionals, including Bipolar Disorder: A Family-Focused Treatment Approach. Dr. Miklowitz has published over 300 scientific articles and 70 book chapters. He has won Distinguished Investigator awards from the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, the International Society for Bipolar Disorders, and the Society for a Science of Clinical Psychology. Dr. Miklowitz is one of the few psychologists to have received the Award for Research in Mood Disorders from the American College of Psychiatrists.

Introduction: Where Are We Now? I. The Experience and Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder 1. How This Book Can Help You Survive--and Thrive 2. Understanding the Experience of Bipolar Disorder 3. Into the Doctor's Court: Getting an Accurate Diagnosis 4. "Is It an Illness or Is It Me?": Coping with the Diagnosis II. Laying the Foundation for Effective Treatment 5. Where Bipolar Disorder Comes From: Genetics, Biology, and Stress 6. What Medications and Psychotherapy Can Do for You 7. Coming to Terms with Your Medications III. Practical Strategies for Staying Well 8. Tips to Help You Manage Moods 9. Heading Off the Escalation of Mania 10. Halting the Spiral of Depression 11. Overcoming Suicidal Thoughts and Feelings 12. For Women Only: What You Need to Know about Bipolar Disorder and Your Health 13. Succeeding at Home and at Work: Communication, Problem-Solving Skills, and Dealing Effectively with Stigma 14. "Does My Child Have Bipolar Disorder?": How Would You Know and What Should You Do? Resources for People with Bipolar Disorder