Gathered from sufferers young and old, these first-hand accounts of individuals with bipolar disorder are equally inspirational, informative, and amusing. They cover all aspects of the disorder, from first symptoms and diagnosis, to times when the disorder is more or less under control. They also emphasize the importance of personal strategies for handling the disorder, such as exercise and support networks alongside medication and professional assistance. Featuring tips from clinicians and the latest research, this is filled with tested and proven solutions for living a happy and healthy life.
Author(s): Kerrie Eyers, Gordon Parker
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Year: 2009
Language: English
Commentary: 73434
Pages: 298
About the author......Page 2
Title Page......Page 4
Contents......Page 6
Foreword......Page 8
On balance: Conjuring the metaphor......Page 16
1. Triumphs and tumbles: Ups and downs of bipolar disorder......Page 20
2. Dazzling and daredevil: The spiral of mood elevation......Page 42
3. Sparkling in the spotlight: Creativity and bipolar disorder......Page 55
4. Damage control: The fallout from a bipolar high......Page 74
5. Down to the wire: Responses to diagnosis......Page 91
6. Perfecting balance: Acting on early warning signs......Page 105
7. The show must go on: Acceptance of bipolar disorder......Page 119
8. Handling the swings: Medication and mood balance......Page 148
9. Performance partnerships: Professionals and risk management......Page 169
10. The acrobats' pyramid: Family and friends in formation......Page 194
11. Becoming a ring master: The discipline of self-management......Page 217
12. Practising the art: Bipolar disorder and the getting of wisdom......Page 248
Appendix 1: Perfecting the routine: More bipolar control techniques......Page 269
Appendix 2: The safety net: A wellbeing plan......Page 283
References......Page 290
