The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide, Second Edition: What You and Your Family Need to Know 2nd Edition

When I was first diagnosed, I would have been too drugged to read this book. After being toxic on and off with lithium toxity I read this book. I believe I have read every piece of literature available and that includes two textbooks. I realized for the first time the loss of memory and now the loss of balance had to do with my medication. I called a neurologist I had seen and he made room for me right away. I had been on medication four times stronger than today for over twenty years. I have a life today. I have control over what I am going to take and have lots of room to make that decision. I report what is happening and how I am doing each day and also complete a mood chart which I have done daily for over 19 years. This book describes everything I have been through up to the end when the neurologist diagnosed me right away in his office. I had a terrific non-medical detox, the last four hours of which I thought I was going to die. I have a full life today. I have completed my MBA. I have become a speaker, writer and photographer and now operate an online business called CHS Online Ventures LLC This is the most complete, EASY To READ book on the market today. It is very accurate. I could relate to every page. This would have been perfect when I was diagnosed, for my family, and great for me a month or so down the line. I refer to it often. I bought the Kindle version the minute it was for sale. If you are bipolar (I am a bipolar one) and want to make sure you are having the best life possible, read this book. It covers material more accurately than any psychiatrist did for me in over twenty years. This book has saved my life. I would have likely gone into organ failure, including my brain, within days. This is the cheapest bipolar information and suggestions that really work. I have found it the most accurate of anything I have read in over twenty years. I don't know how I can recommend it more.

All selections were well worth reading. It took tremendous courage for each author to write their personal memoirs about their struggles with Bipolar Disorder. I am grateful that they took the risk in order to to help others better understand the illness and the volatile moods and often devastating behaviors of those who suffer with it, as well as the challenges and difficult decisions that those who love them must face. These personal stories help to further open the public conversation on what was once a hushed and even tabooed topic and, hopefully, they will provide greater compassion and understanding for all who suffer with mental illness.For in depth knowledge of symptoms, diagnostic tools, distinguishing characteristics and symptoms of bipolar disorder in various forms, and contrasts with often misdiagnosed mental disorders, and appropriate and effective treatments, "The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide, Second Edition" by David J. Miklowitz, is indispensable to the patient and those who love them. Although the patient must acknowledge and take responsibility for seeking and complying with treatment, it also underlines the important role of family and friends in supporting and encouraging those diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression), and it provides a guide for all who must make this challenging journey. For a balanced blend of courageously shared personal experiences and incredible medical and psychological knowledge, Kay Redfield Jamison's books are, to my knowledge, unparalleled. Her writing is fluid, poetic, and deeply moving. Each word seems to be carefully chosen to express her thoughts and feelings; each phrase is beautifully crafted, imbued with warmth, passion, and raw honesty. Her works are certainly scholarly in content and contribute greatly to both the medical body of knowledge and greater understanding for non medical readers. Moreover, Kay Redfield Jamison's prose draws you in in closer and closer, first speaking to your mind, but then, also touching your heart in a way that makes you feel that you are moving through her journey with her. To me it was so compelling that I could not put the book down until I had experienced the last page.

This was a thorough and informative book. The author kept an upbeat and reaffirming tone throughout and Bipolar disorders were explained in an understandable and encouraging way. This would be a good book for anyone wanting to better understand the disorder.the information was clear and complete. However, if you lean towards finding treatments that are not drug-cure oriented, I would supplement your reading with other books by people who have overcome this illness without a constant reliance on medication. There is so much new information on the brain and how it works, that I would search out additional resources before deciding on a medical treatment.

I read quite a bit and this is the first book review I have ever written. I bought it a few months after starting lithium for bipolar I but did not get around to finishing the book until a year and a half later. I regret not reading it earlier, and I believe it had something to do with not understanding that I do have control of some things (lifestyle modifications, etc). I think this book is very thoughtfully written and makes the reader feel understood and not alone, while also empowering them to take charge of their lives rather than feel a victim of their biology. I have started keeping a mood chart and social rhythm log and this accountability and tracking is much more effective than reminding myself to mind my bedtime. Sticking to routines makes a huge difference and this book certainly helps. I am a physician just out of training, with bipolar disorder, who wants very much for this biological vulnerability to not limit her dreams and her potential to contribute to society...thank you for helping me on my path!

I wish I had known about this book ten years ago. It provides incredibly helpful insights into the nature of the disease, comprehensive information about approaches to treatment, and helpful guidance on management techniques. It is an important book, not just for bipolar patients but also for members of their families. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. If you or a family member is affected by bipolar disease, read this book!

Encontré información oportuna de la condición y de otras condiciones que son parecidas y que valen la pena considerar. Los síntomas se exponen de manera clara y en general es un excelente libro de consulta.

Really really very useful.. Comphrensive, reliable. So many examples. Covers all topics.

Great book! Full of easy to follow and practical knowledge on bipolar. I especially like the stories of others diagnosed with bipolar.

Muito util. Recomendo para pessoas que necessitam um norte para sair da espiral destrutiva que só quem passa por isto sabe como é difícil.