Living With Someone Who's Living With Bipolar Disorder: A Practical Guide for Family, Friends, and Coworkers [Paperback]

An essential resource for anyone who has a close relationship with a person who is bipolar

This book provides a much-needed resource for family and friends of the more than 5 million American adults suffering from bipolar disorder. From psychotic behavior that requires medication to milder mood swings with disturbing ups and down, this book offers a warm and often humorous user-friend guide for coping with bipolar loved ones, colleagues, and friends. The book includes

• Guidance for identifying bipolar disorder symptoms and how to get the diagnosis confirmed
• Strategies for dealing with rants, attacks, blame, depression, mania and other behaviors
• Crucial information on medication and its effectiveness and potential side-effects
• Techniques for dealing with attempts to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol
• How many people with bipolar disorders can care for themselves, get help, feel supported and go on with their own lives

This important book contains real-life illustrative examples and a wealth of helpful strategies and coping mechanisms that can be put into action immediately.

Preface ix

Introduction xiii

Part One Understanding Bipolar Disorder 1

1 What Is (and Isnt) Bipolar Disorder? 3

2 A Brief, Colorful History (and Some Science) of Bipolar Disorder 19

3 Getting an Accurate Diagnosis 35

4 Understanding Medication 53

5 Understanding Psychosocial Therapies and Medical Treatment Options 71

Part Two Living with Your Partner 87

6 Building a Support Team 89

7 Bipolar Disorders and the Workplace 107

8 Communication and Coping Skills 127