The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide What You and Your Family Need to Know

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong challenge--but it doesn't have to rule your life. Find the science-based information you need in the revised third edition of this indispensable guide. Trusted authority Dr. David J. Miklowitz shares proven strategies for managing your illness or supporting a loved one with the disorder. Learn specific steps to cope with mood episodes, reduce recurrences, avoid misdiagnosis, get the most out of treatment, resolve family conflicts, and make lifestyle changes to stay well. Updated throughout, the third edition has a new chapter on kids and teens; the latest facts on medications and therapy, including important advances in personalized care; and expanded coverage of the bipolar II subtype. It features boxes on complementary and alternative treatments and provides downloadable practical tools.

David J. Miklowitz, PhD, is Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Semel Institute, UCLA School of Medicine, and Senior Clinical Researcher in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom. He directs the Child and Adolescent Mood Disorders Program at UCLA, where he supervises psychiatry and psychology trainees and conducts research on psychosocial interventions for children and adolescents with bipolar disorders. Dr. Miklowitz’s numerous publications include the bestselling self-help resource The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide, Third Edition, as well as acclaimed books for professionals, including Bipolar Disorder, Second Edition: A Family-Focused Treatment Approach and Clinician’s Guide to Bipolar Disorder. He has received Distinguished Investigator awards from the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, the Depressive and Bipolar Support Alliance, the International Society for Bipolar Disorders, and the Society for a Science of Clinical Psychology.

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