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Bipolar Disorder

 

Bipolar Handbook

 

 
5.0 out of 5 stars A Friendly Chat about Bipolar Disorder, June 25, 2008
For twenty years, Dr. Wes Burgess has been writing down all the questions asked by his bipolar patients. In this book he thoughtfully answers each question, providing a safe friendly environment for the reader.

What I appreciated most about this book was all the information I had never read in other books on bipolar disorder. I had no idea that left untreated, this disorder can grow worse as you age. This is enough of a reason to convince anyone to keep taking their medication. Stopping medications seems to be an issue that the author addresses numerous times because uncontrolled manic episodes can make the disease worse. It was interesting to realize that it is high levels of adrenaline that cause manic symptoms.

Suicide is also dealt with in this book. Thirty percent of individuals with bipolar disorder will attempt to kill themselves. Some of the other symptoms include: insomnia, intrusive thoughts, rapid speech, memory problems, obsessions, hypersomnia (sleeping during the day), spending sprees, hypersexuality, anxious depression, fatigue, anxiety, social isolation, fear, panic, paranoia and auditory hallucinations.

Left untreated or treated with the wrong medications this disease gets worse over time. The author talks about medications he prescribes and gives detailed information about each one. He mentions Geodon and Ativan as well as numerous other medications that work for bipolar disorder.

You may also want to read: New Hope For People With Bipolar Disorder Revised 2nd Edition: Your Friendly, Authoritative Guide to the Latest in Traditional and Complementary Solutions

~The Rebecca Review

 

Bipolar Disorder

 

4.0 out of 5 stars An Essential Book on Bipolar Disorder, June 8, 2008
"For many bipolar patients, the dark cloud of the illness is leavened by silver linings-creativity, intelligence, and drive. As a result, the bipolar spectrum is a more prevalent phenomenon among those in the public eye: artists, performers, writers, composers, and charismatic leaders."

Nancy Rosenfeld is a bipolar survivor who convinced Jan Fawcett (one of the world's leading authorities on depression and bipolar disorder) and Bernard Golden (a practicing psychologist for more than 30 years) to coauthor this book. Since more than 2.5 million people suffer from bipolar disorder/manic depression this is a much needed resource. This is the third book I've read on this disorder and this is by far the most comprehensive.

The book begins by profiling several famous people who have the disorder. Some of the main problems include mania, hypomania and depression. This book explains the differences between Schizoaffective Bipolar disorder, Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorder. This book also lists a number of medications like Lithium, Risperidone and Geodon that are helpful in treating the disorder.

"Despite all the research demonstrating that people with mental illness are actually less prone to violence than others, many people erroneously associate aggressive behavior with mental disorders." ~ pg. 153

The book becomes even more useful as you read about when medications should be taken and what to watch for in regards to side effects. A patient must at times choose between side effects and suicidal tendancies. In the long run it is better to deal with the side effects than to lose your life. If a pill causes drowsiness then it might be better taken at night. Often side effects can be treated by taking an additional medication.

The prevention of suicide is an essential chapter. It talks about the importance of staying on medication and gives a list of things you can do if you think someone may be suicidal. There is also a Stress Questionnaire to establish your level of stress. The authors explain why you should develop an adequate support system and also give a list of books to read for further information.

I can highly recommend this to families who are dealing with bipolar disorder, to doctors who must address the many needs of their patients and to those suffering with bipolar disorder.

"For many people with bipolar disorder, the turning point in their life comes when they understand their situation, accept responsibility for their actions, and are willing to work hard to change their lives." ~ pg. 218

With so many people suffering from this disorder it is very likely that you will meet someone in your life with this issue. In order to understand what it is like to be bipolar this book is essential. If you are suffering with bipolar disorder then there is not a minute to lose and this book will give you hope that you can be treated effectively. Since many doctors don't have the time for detailed explanations this can also be used as a companion to your present treatment.

~The Rebecca Review

 

Bipolar Disorder and Manic-Depressive Illness

 

5.0 out of 5 stars Adults will find this book useful..., August 9, 2009
"Every seventeen minutes in America someone commits suicide." ~ Pg. 34

Joann Jovinelly has written and especially helpful book about bipolar disorder. This book helps you to identify which type of bipolar disorder you have and then it explains the best medications for your condition. Because this book seems to have been written for children it may be overlooked by adults. It is definitely more advanced than for age 9-12 and I wouldn't recommend it for children unless they are very mature and have been diagnosed with the illness. This book emphasizes the need to stay on medication even when you are feeling well enough not to take it.

What I found most enjoyable about this book was the short quotes from people who have bipolar disorder. It was interesting to see how they viewed their illness. Since over 2 million people suffer from bipolar disorder in the United States this book is needed and appreciated.

Of all the books I've read on bipolar disorder this one seemed the most informative and detailed. It helped me understand the different types of mania experienced and the types of depression that are typical. I would recommend this book to anyone who suspects they may be bipolar or to anyone who knows someone who is bipolar. This book could help you get a better diagnosis and there is also information on how to choose a doctor.

~The Rebecca Review

 

 


 

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