Bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, affects more than 10 million people in America, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Bipolar symptoms include extreme mood swings, shifts in energy levels and behavioral difficulties. Treatment for bipolar generally includes psychotherapy and medication. This chronic, life-long mental illness is treatable but not curable. Even with treatment, individuals diagnosed with bipolar may experience episodes of depression and mania throughout their lives, lasting from days to months. Half of all bipolar diagnoses occur before the age of 25, with many bipolar determinations happening during the late teens, according to The National Institute of Mental Health.
Individuals diagnosed with bipolar disease often struggle at home, at school and at work during the highs and lows of their disorder. Possessing knowledge about bipolar and manic depression assists individuals and their family and friends to adapt and cope with the impact of bipolar disorder.
Professionals
Counselors, therapists and psychiatrists treat bipolar. Counselors and therapists provide a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho education, family therapy and interpersonal therapy. They may make recommendations about medication, however, a psychiatrist or physician is required to provide a prescription. To find a therapist or psychiatrist, ask your physician, check with your insurance company or call your community help line, often reached by dialing 411.
Books
Bipolar disorder books include autobiographies, self-help, treatment, workbooks, guides and more. They may target an individual, families, parents or clinicians. Examples of books available include: "Friends and Family Bipolar Survival Guide" by Mark and Debra Meehl, "Bipolar Disorder: The Ultimate Guide" by Sarah Owen and Amanda Saunders, "The Bipolar Teen: What You Can Do to Help Your Child and Your Family" by David J. Miklowitz Ph.D. and Elizabeth L. George Ph.D., and "The Bipolar Workbook: Tools for Controlling Your Mood Swings" by Monica Ramirez Basco.
Online
Online bipolar resources include articles, links to further information and online discussion groups. Topics include symptoms, treatment options, FAQs and more. Online examples include the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) at Dbsalliance.org, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at Nami.org and the National Institute of Mental Health at Nimh.nih.gov.
Support Groups
Find local bipolar support groups via community resources such as newspapers, bulletin boards and therapists. Some local support groups are a chapter of a national organization such as NAMI. Other support groups may be unaffiliated with a larger organization, perhaps started by a local therapist or mental health advocate. Support group activities vary but may provide training, access to resources and peer mentoring.
