Manic depression is a mental illness that many Americans struggle with each year. Also called bipolar disorder, this illness sends patients on difficult emotional swings from severe depression to mania. As with all disorders, reading in depth about the subject can be helpful and comforting for patients and their families. These books may be purchased from a bookstore or online, or borrowed from a library.
"Surviving Manic Depression: A Manual on Bipolar Disorder for Patients, Families and Providers"
A 416-page primer on the disorder "Surviving Manic Depression: A Manual on Bipolar Disorder for Patients, Families and Providers," was written by E. Fuller Torrey, M.D. and Michael B. Knable, D.O. Published in 2002, this book covers many aspects of bipolar disorder that patients have might have lingering questions about. Possible causes are discussed, along with symptoms and treatments. Prominent people with bipolar disorder are quoted throughout the book and a workable strategy is outlined for coping with the effects of the illness. Special attention is given to little-talked about issues such as violence and the tendency for patients to stop taking medication during the manic phase of illness or after medication makes them feel "normal" again.
"The Bipolar Workbook: Tools for Controlling Your Mood Swings"
"The Bipolar Workbook: Tools for Controlling Your Mood Swings" is just that: a helpful book to help the patient take charge of her illness. Through the consideration and exploration of thought patterns, the book instructs the reader about ways to alleviate or prevent both depressive and manic episodes. Author Monica R. Basco, Ph.D. teaches the reader how to develop an "early warning system" to offset the severe phases of bipolar disorder. This book, published in 2005, is considered easy to use and claims to show sufferers ways to get to sleep during the manic phase of illness.
"Hurry Down Sunshine"
"Hurry Down Sunshine" is a memoir written by a father of a teenage girl stricken by a severe case of bipolar disorder. It describes in graphic detail the pain and anguish of the family as well as the patient, but also considers the possibility that this illness can serve as a sort of gift or special attribute. Author Michael Greenberg takes the reader inside the unforgettable world of mania. Published in 2008, the book is good reading material for mature family members of bipolar disorder patients.
"Loving Someone With Bipolar Disorder"
A patient with bipolar disorder and a psychologist have paired to create a book packed with advice for intimate partners of those with bipolar disorder. Authors Julie A. Fast and John D. Preston, Psy.D. lay out a plan for preventing or alleviating manic episodes and keeping the focus on love and companionship. "Loving Someone With Bipolar Disorder" stresses that couples should work together to manage the illness. Covered topics include diet, exercise, medication and lifestyle changes, all which the authors claim can lead to stability. This book was published in 2004.
