Over 275,000 bipolar sufferers and their loved ones have found the crucial information and support they need in this indispensable guide, now in a thoroughly updated third edition. Trusted authority David J. Miklowitz explains the nature and causes of bipolar illness and provides science-based strategies for coping with mood episodes, reducing recurrences, avoiding misdiagnosis, getting the most out of medications and psychotherapy, and making lifestyle changes to stay well. Readers love the easy-to-understand tone, vivid stories, practical tools, and problem-solving advice, including ways to strengthen relationships strained by the illness. 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; boxes on the pros and cons of complementary and alternative treatments; expanded coverage of the bipolar II subtype; and 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