Lana R. Castle

This book was published in 2003, and as far as I can see, it hasn't been revised or updated since then. The author and publisher should really consider publishing an updated and revised version, since a great deal of information in the book has changed, and new information has come to light.

I'm giving the book only four stars, because while it is a useful and helpful manual for living with bipolar disorder, there were a number of typographical errors that could have led to misunderstanding had I not been well-informed about the subject.

That said, in terms of content, it is an excellent book. It covers a great deal of territory, both from the perspective of someone living with bipolar disorder and a family member or friend. The book is divided into three parts: Part One, Living the Bipolar Life; Part Two, Separating Strands; and Part Three, Maintaining Balance. The first part serves as an introduction to the book, and life with bipolar disorder. The author tackles the difficult and often taboo subject of suicide, reasons people put off treatment, and what to expect when you first go for treatment. The second part discusses the biological and biochemical basis of brain disorders like bipolar disorder and unipolar disorder, and treatments that are available. The last part, Maintaining Balance, talks about managing symptoms, coping strategies, and how to maintain wellness, including hospitalization. The author also discusses stigma in this section.

Even though I have learned to live well with bipolar disorder and manage my symptoms, I still learned new things from this book, such as the importance of eating well and getting exercise, and setting goals each day, even small ones. I was doing these things already (except the exercise!), but it was good to know that I was on the right track.

I think this book will be most helpful for friends and family members of people living with bipolar disorder, because it describes accurately, but sympathetically, what people with bipolar disorder go through on a daily basis, and why it can sometimes be hard to maintain stability or manage symptoms despite our best efforts. It also addresses the myths surrounding bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses, which can go a long way towards helping people understand the issues people diagnosed with mental illness experience.

For that reason, I would recommend this book, but I do wish there was a revised, updated version, with more current information.… (mehr)