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Summary

Bipolar Disorder affects many more people than just the 2.5 million Americans who suffer from the disease. Like depression and other serious illnesses, bipolar disorder also affects spouses, partners, family members, friends and coworkers. And, according to the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation, 15% of children diagnosed with ADHD may actually be suffering from early-onset of Bipolar Disorder.Bipolar Disorder For Dummies reveals some of the causes and consequences of bipolar disorder, let you in on some crisis survival strategies, and describe ways that friends and family members can support loved ones who have the disease. The book includes an overview of the causes and symptoms of bipolar disorder, explains step-by-step how to obtain an accurate diagnosis, discusses the medications available, and tells what you can and can't do to help someone with the disease. You'll learn:The different categories and potential causes of bipolar disorderHow to select the right mental health specialistManaging employment-related issues brought on because of the disorderHow bipolar disorder affects childrenAdvocating for yourself or a loved onePlanning ahead for manic and depressive episodesSelecting the best medications for you_including alternative "natural" treatmentsHow to survive an immediate crisis situationIdentifying triggers and mapping your moodsComplete with fill-in-the-blanks forms and charts, key web site and email addresses, and first-hand accounts from real people, Bipolar Disorder For Dummies gives you the latest information and self-help strategies you and your loved ones need to help everyone affected feel a whole lot better.

Introduction.

Part I: Boning Up on Bipolar Disorder.

Chapter 1: Living La Vida Bipolar.

Chapter 2: Demystifying Bipolar Disorder.

Chapter 3: A Positive Prognosis with a Proactive Plan.

Part II: Taming the Bipolar Beast.

Chapter 4: Let’s Get Physical: Ruling Out Other Health Issues.

Chapter 5: Getting a Psychiatric Evaluation and Treatment Plan.

Chapter 6: Building a Winning Mood-Management Team.

Part III: Opening the Treatment Toolbox: A Comprehensive, Integrated Approach.

Chapter 7: Touring the Bipolar Pharmacy.

Chapter 8: Retooling Your Mind through Therapy.

Chapter 9: Expanding Your Treatment Options.

Part IV: Helping Yourself.

Chapter 10: Surviving Your Current Crisis.

Chapter 11: Healing at Your Own Pace.

Chapter 12: Identifying Your Triggers and Mapping Your Moods.

Chapter 13: Restructuring Your Life.

Chapter 14: Working Out and Eating Right.

Chapter 15: Battling the Urge to Fly Solo.

Part V: Assisting a Friend or Relative with Bipolar Disorder.

Chapter 16: Supporting Your Loved One.

Chapter 17: Planning Ahead for a Possible Crisis.

Chapter 18: Backing Your Bipolar Child.

Part VI: The Part of Tens.

Chapter 19: Ten Questions to Ask a Psychiatrist or Therapist.

Chapter 20: Ten Ways to Fight the High Cost of Treatment.

Chapter 21: Ten Ways to Help the Bipolar Community.

Appendix: A Glossary of Bipolar-Related Terms.

Index.

Supplemental Materials

What is included with this book?

The New copy of this book will include any supplemental materials advertised. Please check the title of the book to determine if it should include any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.

The Used, Rental and eBook copies of this book are not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. Typically, only the book itself is included. This is true even if the title states it includes any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.