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Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder
A 4-Step Plan for You and Your Loved Ones to Manage the Illness and Create Lasting Stability

by Julie A. Fast and John Preston, PsyD

      Is your life spinning out of control with unwanted thoughts, spending sprees, and mood swings? Are you being medically treated for bipolar disorder? You may be surprised that medication alone will not curb the bipolar symptoms. In Take Charge of Your Bipolar Disorder, authors Julie A. Fast and John Preston, PsyD, present a thorough treatment plan for leading a healthy life with the illness.

A person with bipolar suffers from both the symptoms and the stigma of the illness. He may act emotionally or psychologically troubled. Do you know that the illness causes changes in the brain, which then alter your actions? When bipolar disorder stabilizes, those symptoms frequently disappear. You may also feel guilt, confusion, anger, and sadness over your diagnosis. Accepting that bipolar is an illness, not a personal fault, is the first step to wellness. Comparing it to other illnesses, like diabetes, will help you and your family understand that the illness needs special, medical treatment.

Do you know you have bipolar conversations? Have you ever told family, "I never do anything right," or "Why are you bothering me all the time? I need space." These leading comments are symptoms of bipolar disorder. Your words do not portray your feelings, but the conversation cycles because everyone reacts to the words. Recognizing these patterned comments will help family respond to the illness instead of the words. It will help you maintain stability by addressing the bipolar symptoms.

Fast and Preston outline a four-step program to manage bipolar disorder: medications and supplements, lifestyle changes (sleep, diet, exercise, light, work and money), behavioral changes (discovering your triggers and conversations), and asking for help (family, friends, supportive medical team). This book allows readers to personalize answers and create a treatment plan. Caregiver tips are highlighted for family and friends, and patients’ experiences pepper the book. Most people misunderstand the disorder, and I like that Fast and Preston ease patient and family fears in a comprehensive, easy-to-follow format. If bipolar plays havoc with your life, Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder will give you the tools and the hope for a healthy life.

The Book

Hachette Book Group USA/ Warner Wellness
September 26, 2006
Paperback
0-446-697-69761-3
Non-fiction Self-help Health
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Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Jennifer Akers
Reviewed 2006
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© 2006 MyShelf.com