Book Description
This volume provides a state-of-the-science review of knowledge on bipolar disorder in children, covering all aspects of theory, research, and practice. Leading clinical researchers address such topics as epidemiology, diagnosis and assessment, comorbidity, and outcomes. Compelling findings are presented on the neurobiological and genetic bases of the disorder. The book also summarizes available treatment approaches. Throughout, contributors identify promising directions for further investigation while weighing in on key methodological questions and areas of controversy.

... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

This comprehensive volume is the first to offer guidance to clinicians and researchers treating or studying bipolar disorder in older adults. Growing numbers of elderly people are affected by this serious mental illness.

Presenting the most recent information, experts in the fields of bipolar disorder, geriatrics, and mental health services research cover late-life bipolar disorder in four major domains: epidemiology and assessment, treatment, complexity and comorbidity, and specialized care delivery. Revealing the effect of the aging process on the disease, they address diagnosis patterns over the life course, rating scales of assessment, pharmacologic and psychological therapies, adherence to treatment, effects of cultural factors, assessing the quality of care, and legal and ethical issues.

An important tool for clinicians, this book will serve as a springboard for further research into this complex disorder.

Customer Reviews (1)

current treatments
The take home message gleaned from this book can be a little subjective. Optomistically, it describes various treatments offered to the elderly who are also suffering from bipolar disorder. Some of these are biological treatments, like antipsychotic drugs, while others are psychosocial interventions. All this is accompanied by descriptions of typical cases of substance abuse amongst those adults with the disorder.

Not very cheery reading. Though keep in mind that the doctors and psychologists giving the treatments are doing their best. And the book does mention that research is certainly ongoing, for better offerings. For none of the current treatments is perfect. ... Read more

Book Description

This updated and substantially revised edition not only incorporates the expansion of the pharmacological armamentarium available for treatment but also integrates the explosion of evidence-based data for psychosocial interventions.

Book Description
This readable and empowering book offers much-needed advice on such key areas as sleep habits, coping with stress and anger, and relating to family and friends.The book is practical, realistic, and well focused, emphasising the individual, family and social resources that can and should be used to deal with a condition as complex as bipolar disorder.--Quarterly Journal of Mental Health ... Read more

Book Description
Despite works published as recently as 2002, the continuing rapidevolution of new medications and adjunctive psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder has made the concise Advances in Treatment of BipolarDisorder essential for today's clinicians who want to stay abreast of thelatest developments in treating this complex and challenging mentalillness. Meticulously referenced with numerous tables and illustrations,Advances in Treatment of Bipolar Disorder offers a very timely andexciting perspective on new ways to treat bipolar disorder. After anoverview, six succinct chapters written by experts review recentdevelopments emphasizing interventions supported by controlled studies. ... Read more

Book Description
The revolution in psychiatry that began in earnest in the 1960s led to dramatic advances in the understanding and treatment of manic-depressive illness. Hailed as the most outstanding book in the biomedical sciences when it was originally published in 1990, Manic-Depressive Illness was the first to survey this massive body of evidence comprehensively and to assess its meaning for both clinician and scientist.It also vividly portrayed the experience of manic-depressive illness from the perspective of patients, their doctors, and researchers. Encompassing an understanding about the illness as Kraeplin conceived of it- about its cyclical course and about the essential unity of its bipolar and recurrent unipolar forms- the book has become the definitive work on the topic, revered by both specialists and nonspecialists alike. Now, in this magnificent second edition, Drs. Frederick Goodwin and Kay Redfield Jamison bring their unique contribution to mental health science into the 21st century. In collaboration with a team of other leading scientists, a collaboration designed to preserve the unified voice of the two authors, they exhaustively review the biological and genetic literature that has dominated the field in recent years and incorporate cutting-edge research conducted since publication of the first edition. They also update their surveys of psychological and epidemiological evidence, as well as that pertaining to diagnostic issues, course, and outcome, and they offer practical guidelines for differential diagnosis and clinical management.The medical treatment of manic and depressive episodes is described, strategies for preventing future episodes are given in detail, and psychotherapeutic issues common in this illness are considered.Special emphasis is given to fostering compliance with medication regimens and treating patients who abuse drugs and alcohol or who pose a risk of suicide. This book, unique in the way that it retains the distinct perspective of its authors while assuring the maximum in-depth coverage of a vastly expanded base of scientific knowledge, will be a valuable and necessary addition to the libraries of psychiatrists and other physicians, psychologists, clinical social workers, neuroscientists, pharmacologists, and the patients and families who live with manic-depressive illness. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Complete, comprehensive reading for bipolar disorder
Although a huge book along with a hefty price tag, this is probably the most up to date information on bipolar disorder (manic depression) available today. It offers a wealth of information that is usable to the clinician as well as the patient. In fact, I think this should be required reading for any clinician who deal with people with this condition.

I strongly urge the purchase of this book esp. for the consumer as self knowledge will be such an asset when communicating with your doctor. This book covers most everything from the most basic to the most complex information to date on this vexing condition. Though I am constantly searching the internet for the most up to date information on bipolar disease, I find the authors of this book to be the leading authorities presently.

A Must-Read for Patients
This month's long-awaited second edition recently hit the streets, and is well worth the wait. At more than 1,200 pages and with an impressive list of collaborators shedding light on all manner of matters melancholic and manic, the book represents a virtual Manhattan Project on mood disorders.

With our recovery riding on being as smart, if not smarter, than our treating professionals, it pays for patients to read what their clinicians are reading, especially a work of this magnitude.Don't let clinician-speak intimidate you. The authors went to great lengths to organize their subject matter into a meaningful and comprehensive whole, with clear transitions from one topic to the next. A few pages into the text, and one quickly becomes habituated to the polysyllables. Then it's clear sailing.

At $99, sales resistance is understandable. My two cents: You cannot afford NOT to have this book. Each day you struggle with this illness costs you money, already. The cost-benefit is a no-brainer. Stop paying your cable bill, if you have to, and make what could prove to be the best investment of your life.

Technical but Tops
I bought this book because someone I know has just been diagnosed with "Soft Bipolar"disorder.This is a "shadow" form of bipolar disorder.While I've dealt with people with bipolar disorder before ( I'm a retired minister), I never heard of "soft bipolar" or "bipolar spectrum" disorder before.This book is the classic text on Bipolar disorder.The only problem is that it is a little old ( about 10 to 15 years old) and discoveries about "soft bipolar" disorder are just coming into the literature now.If you are depressed or diagnosed as depressed, as the person close to me was, you might have soft bipolar disorder.It is much more common than you think.The problem with it is that it needs different medications than regular unipolar disorder does.As an example, if you take one of the SSRI's (such as Prozac or Zoloft) and have soft bipolar, the chances are very good that you will end up with hypomania, which is a mild form of mania.It feels good for a long time--just like alcohol.But at some point in time, it will begin to backfire on you as it did on my friend.She kept getting more and more hyper and angry.Finally, her therapist decided to try out this diagnosis on her.He switched medicines, and it made her mood much more stable.This book would also be excellent for someone who wants to know about bipolar I disorder--manic depressive disorder.The problem with the book is that it is very technical, but everything is there even if it could use a little updating.

Making a difficult study simply amazing!
Studying and treating Bipolar Disorder is a difficult trend. Since Kraepelin lessons became available in his book, perhaps "Manic Depressive Illness" is the first to try the almost impossible mission to launch new lights on the matter. And with an amazing approach full of eruditism as well as simplicity and warmth. Untill nowadays, extremely accurate, complete, precise and comprehensive. In little words: in all aspects, amazing!

BUY THIS BOOK
Years ago when I was hospitalized for this illness, this HUGE reference and research book literally got me through.When doctors and my own family didn't know what was going on with me, I knew because the things written in this book were detailing (to a hugely accurate degree)my own experiences. Beyond this, it gives invaluable insight into lesser-known facets of this condition that it's apparent not even some physicians have researched, so in depth. The criticisms of some semi-outdated material are valid...certainly there have been advances in medicine, in particular, in the past 10-15 years.However, the bulk of the information is current in its validity and would not change, over time.This is some intense research.There is simply no other reference book out there that is so detailed and thorough.You must buy this book if you are the least bit interested in learning about this illness.Mental health experts should be required by law to own it.Surely, if you yourself have experienced the effects of bipolar disorder or you know someone in your family or life with it, you will literally not be able to put the book down--it's fascinating! Buy it, coupled with co-author Kay Redfield Jamison's other books (she's a psychiatrist AND a bipolar/manic depressive)--she is refreshingly unashamed and clear about her own life experiences in other works.Don't expect any personal examples in this book, as it's strictly research and data. ... Read more

Book Description
This true medical detective story describes the author's four generation family odyssey that leads him to paths less traveled. He discusses multiple biological triggers and effective nutritional interventions for those suffering from bipolar disorder and other central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Exploring the role of infections, foods and additives in mental illness he challenges conventional wisdom, arguing for a closer look at a variety of contributing factors. Examples include Lyme disease, viruses, gluten, casein, MSG, and aspartame. He examines assumptions and practices in the justice and mental health systems that impact those with CNS disorders. Too Good to be True? describes some totally different ways — for patients, parents, teachers, therapists, police, prison guards, nurses, doctors and judges — to understand and respond to these crippling disorders. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Mental Illness
Too good to be true? Nutrients
I have not had time to read it.

unusual book
A family with multiple generations of bi-polar
disorder, a father struggling to save his son,
a lot of research and exploration into causation
of mental illness, some of the science is dense
and hard for a lay person to read, other parts
of this are gripping, personal, and interesting.
Anyone considering TrueHope nutritional supplements
will want to read this material.

A story that is all too common...but the outcome gives hope
Great book not because it is perfect but because it is a real story about the very real odyssey that families many times go on in pursuit of a solution for their mentally ill family member. Narrative in a "you are with me kind of stream of consciousness" you feel like you have stepped into the authors world and you get to participate in the day in day out detective work to find the causes an solutions to his son's "bi-polar" problem. The book shows the short term benefits of drugs for controlling symptoms but but the author is far more interested in in understanding the kinds of issues that relate to the specific causes of bi-polar which are different for everybody and found a wide variety of research the demonstratively shows nutritional deficiencies and imbalances as well asallergic reactions to various substances including vaccinations can lead to the very symptoms described as bi-polar.This is the first book you should read because instead of providing you the latest popular theory it is a true exploration of the health issues surrounding the emergence of constellation of symptoms know as bi-polar disorder.You will be much more well prepared to do your own research after reading this book.That is why is is so powerful.

Excellent book with numerous references
One of the best thought provoking books I have read on BP.

Provides answers to some of the questions related to dietary, and immunlogical links to BP, that I have always asked my doctors but for which I have received no answeres from them. The book does not have all the answeres and at times wanders in many directions. However the content summarized in the book will take one years to research otherwise.

Alternative Treatments Work!
I have been researching the drug industry and psychiatry over the past year and have attended a Harvard Medical School seminar to see what is being taught concerning psychopharmacology. What I have learned is that for generations, orthomolecular physicians have been curing mental illness by recognizing that brain malfunctions are caused by medical problems such as thyroid, kidney, and sleep disorder problems, an immune disorder cerebral allergy, metal toxicity, Candida infestation and enzyme and nutritional imbalances such as essential fatty acids deficiency (malnourishment). Biochemical testing can assist in determining underlying causes. Harvard's Dr. Stoll recommends fish oil to provide essential Omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins as an effective treatment for depression.

According to Prescription for Nutritional Healing P. 448, A thyroid condition can cause fatigue, mood swings and depression, P. 153: An allergy is an inappropriate response by the body's immune system to a substance that is not normally harmful." P. 157: "Cerebral allergies cause swelling of the lining of the brain." P. 154: "Persons between the ages of fifteen and twenty-five are the most allergy-prone..."

Entire food families can cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. Repeated headaches, or schizophrenic, violent, or aggressive reactions, can be an indicator. Foods such as corn, wheat, rice, dairy products, and chocolate, and certain food additives, are the most common offenders but chemicals such as petrochemicals or other substances, like mold can also cause serious problems. Other manifestations of food allergies are; acne, arthritis, asthma, chest and shoulder pains, colitis, depression, fatigue, food cravings, headaches, hemorrhoids, insomnia, intestinal problems, muscle disorders, obesity, sinus problems, ulcers, and unexplained dramatic weight changes. The list goes on and on. Allergies can also affect children diagnosed as Autistic or exhibiting ADHD.

To cure, orthomolecular physicians have patients stop eating what they are allergic to. One doctor I read about reported that about 50% of his supposedly schizophrenic patients were just allergic. These physicians remove toxic metals from the body, they rid the body of Candida, and they provide supplements as needed. A proper diet is also wise to fuel the brain with essential nutrients and exercise to provide oxygen to cells and to assist in removing toxins via sweat glands.

Unfortunately, the drug industry has such an influence on psychiatrists that it is still common to do superficial physical testing (if any at all), ignore the results, and rather than determine the cause and fix the problem, they try to cover up symptoms with mega doses of drugs that cause damage and even disability. Just one of many adverse effects from psychiatric medicine is brain damage - the neurotransmitter imbalance known as Parkinsonism where a person can no longer walk or talk normally due to extreme slowness. According to Merck's web site, the disorder's pathophysiology is "inhibition of dopaminergic system due to blockage of dopaminergic receptors by antipsychotic drugs." An excellent, very alarming book is Rethinking Psychiatric Drugs, which was written by a psychiatrist who saw the damage drugs cause and who has stopped practicing psychiatry. According to this publication, drug trials are not unbiased and these drugs are no more effective than placebos, and they cause permanent brain damage.

If psychiatric drugs could cure, you would be able to take them and stop. Instead, drugs mask and/or change symptoms, they can be addictive, and they have serious side effects. Drugs are toximolecular. They are substances foreign to the body, in sub-lethal (and sometimes lethal) amounts. Drugs should be used only as a last resort, emergency measure. Other treatments also cause permanent harm, such as electric shock that is well known in the industry for causing permanent memory loss.

Just one person mentally distressed, disabled by drugs, and not able to work, will cost at least two million dollars over a lifetime, so this is an issue that impacts all of us.

This book is a step in the right direction. Drugs are not the answer.

... Read more

Book Description
Dr. William Niederhut, a graduate of Harvard Medical School, had been practicing psychiatry for almost twenty years when he realized in 2003 that both of his young daughters were suffering from a serious mental illness. His search for an understanding of the problem led to his identification of a hidden, familial syndrome in himself and in many of his adult bipolar patients, which he has called the Childhood-Onset Bipolar Attention Deficit, or COBAD Syndrome. As he began to identify the syndrome in many of his adult patients, he also found that it could be effectively treated, often with dramatic results. After reporting his findings to the American Journal of Psychiatry in March of 2005, he wrote a detailed account of the events leading to his identification and successful treatment of the COBAD syndrome in his adult patients, presented here in this seminal work on the subject. In his book, he reviews the research data supporting his diagnostic and treatment approach, and argues that the proper diagnosis and treatment of the COBAD syndrome will dramatically improve outcomes for millions of people who are currently diagnosed with bipolar disorders or ADHD. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Surprising readable
It isn't ususual to find a book that contains detailed discussions of medical research.It isn't hard to find a book on psychiatric issues that is readable to laymen.However, it IS hard to find a book that is both of these.

I am newly diagnosed with Bipolar 2 disorder as well as ADD, so this book contained information that was wholly unknown to me.I was able to read it cover to cover, easily understand, and make use of the information.Highly recommended.

The Most Original Adult Psychiatry Text Since The Broken Mirror
After a psychiatrist colleague of mine first read The COBAD Syndrome in 2005, he told me that he had begun to see the features of the syndrome "everywhere" in his adult practice. Academic child psychiatrists had begun to describe the characteristics of bipolar children during the past decade, but their research findings had not been applied to the diagnosis and treatment of bipolar adults with early-onset mood disorders. In The COBAD Syndrome, Dr. Niederhut has presented a comprehensive case series of bipolar adults with childhood-onset mood problems who also exhibit the characteristic features of children with bipolar disorders, including ADHD and anxiety disorders.

He reviews a complex array of technical, controlled research data on the subject of early-onset bipolar disorders and ADHD, but does so in a way that is straightforward and accessible. In an era when psychiatric journals and websites are cluttered with industry-sponsored publications that often make simple matters appear technical and complex, Dr. Niederhut has succeeded in writing a scholarly book that makes complex, technical matters appear relatively simple and jargon-free.

Since the original publication of The COBAD Syndrome, a number of research articles have appeared which support Dr. Niederhut's central findings about adults with childhood-onset bipolar disorders and ADHD. There are, however, no published, controlled studies to date about optimal treatment of the COBAD syndrome in adults. Dr. Niederhut does discuss his own empirical approach to treating the syndrome in adults, and his observations are potentially important in this emerging area of adult psychiatry, particularly since the most reputable books about the treatment of bipolar adults written to date scarcely mention ADHD and its implications for treatment and prognosis.

A Landmark in Adult Psychiatric Diagnosis
This is by far the best book that I have read on the subject of adults with bipolar type mood problems and ADHD, written for both mental health professionals and for the general public.The author is the first person I know of who has tried to apply the new research findings on childhood-onset bipolar disorders to the diagnosis and treatment of adults with chronic depression and irritability. He is an adult psychiatrist from Harvard Medical School who began to study the child research data of the past several years after his daughters were diagnosed with bipolar disorders at age five.He then realized that the features of childhood-onset bipolar disorder--including commonly co-occurring ADHD--could be readily identified in himself, and in many of his adult patients.The last part of the book describes his experiences in successfully treating the adult form of the syndrome, and his efforts to bring his findings to the attention of the psychiatric establishment.He is critical of the enmeshment of modern academic psychiatry and pharmaceutical companies, and of the research process that he describes as "finding new drugs for old paradigms." The book also presents an interesting history of paradigm shifts in American psychiatry, and of the enduring resistance of the psychiatric establishment to new diagnostic and treatment paradigms.Since the publication of The COBAD Syndrome, several major research articles have now appeared which support Dr. Niederhut's central findings, including his estimation that at least one per cent of all adults suffer from the COBAD syndrome.

This book really made me stop and think
I have two young children with bipolar disorder so I was very interested to read about adults who are being treated with a childhood onset form of this illness.The book really drew me in because the writer tells not only about his patients but of his own children who suffer from bp as well.His insight in treating adults with this disorder was very helpful.He highlights the aspect of attentional difficulties with these patients and how it affected their functioning even when their moods were under control.This book gave me much food for thought and helped me identify some symptoms that I had previously overlooked in my own children. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Tried everything but still not feeling better?

If your depression keeps coming back or is even getting worse, then you may be suffering from bipolar II or “soft” bipolar disorder. Commonly misdiagnosed, these mood disorders are characterized by recurring bouts of depression along with anxiety, irritability, mood swings, sleep problems, or intrusive thoughts.

Customer Reviews (30)

depressingly good about BPII
This book is about bipolar disease with special emphasis on BPII.I read it in a single night after getting my diagnosis and found clear comprehensive descriptions of everything my doc was trying to explain to me.The book covers diagnosis and possible misdiagnosis; doc/patient relationships; pros and cons of various meds, and life style changes. The writing style is veryclear and nontechnical, even humorous at times. However, reading the book left me depressed - BPII is a nasty disease and required lots of effort to manage.

why am i still depressed?
Why Am I Still Depressed? Recognizing and Managing the Ups and Downs of Bipolar II and Soft Bipolar Disorder
finally, a book about bipolar II!every other book i've read on bipolar disorder briefly mentions that some people are hypomanic, and primarily addresses mania.i no longer wonder if i've been misdiagnosed.i see many symptoms and history that i never knew were relevant, such as pms, a family history rich with alcoholism, experiencing mixed moods, irritability and anxiety, instead of mania, the failure of antidepressant after antidepressant, and atypical symptoms of depression (such as sleeping too much, instead of being unable to sleep).this book is a gold mine.
dr.phelps has the humility to admit that some of the statements made are his opinions.They are based upon formal research, and his own practice ,and he encourages the reader to visit his website for further information which would have made the book several volumes, and because many books become obsolete by the time they're published.
this book has taught me that i'm not the only one with "soft" bipolar disorder, that even though my symptoms are atypical, i'm not unique.there are lots of folks out there with near-identical presentations. They're doing well, and so can i.

Not worth the money
Nothing new. It actually made me feel depressed! Being a new book I really thought it would have information I can use. It does not. It may be good for people that are not sure if they are bipolar (thats the only reason I gave it 2 stars) but as for me, it's not worth the money. The same sentences are repeated many times and if you happen to be Bipolar 1 looking for more modern ideas on bipolar in general forget this book, it makes bipolar one look hopeless.

Lots of information
This book not only touches on the obvious, but delves into various topics as related to bipolar II.Sections on exercise, finding a good psychiatrist, options in medications, are comprehensive and helpful.

I was very pleased to find a resource this helpful with bipolar II.

Vague, not really helpful
This book was not only too vague, but was told in such a way that ANYONE who ever had any depression in their lifetime at all probably has Bipolar II.Some of the explanations were ridiculous and offered little alternatives such as medical reasons.There was a lot of opinion and character accounts and I found the book to be more of a fiction tale than a non-fiction reference book. I've already swapped it out of my library.If you need to learn about Bipolar II go with another option. ... Read more

Book Description
With proper diagnosis and early intervention, there is unlimited hope for children and teens diagnosed with bipolar disorder to lead fulfilling and enjoyable lives, starting today.

Inside, you’ll discover compassionate and informative methods to help manage the diagnosis and develop the natural strengths, gifts, and skills that every child has to offer. Written by a top expert in the field, this life-changing book is presented in clear, straightforward language that dispels the myths about bipolar disorder and offers real solutions. You’ll uncover keen insight and the latest options for helping your bipolar child or teen by understanding:

* The causes of bipolar disorder
* The path and outcome of bipolar disorder in children and teens
* The latest biological treatments and psychosocial therapies, and how to use them
* How to handle behavioral and academic problems, as well as assess and manage suicidal tendencies
* And much more ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good basic information
I am not the parent of a child with bipolar disorder, so I cannot comment on how useful this book is for parents trying to help a bipolar child.However, as a general reader, I found this book to have good basic information.It was easy to read, not at all too technical for the non medically trained person.In fact, I thought that at times the author could have gone into more detail on particular topics.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for easy to read, entry-level info on pediatric bipolar disorder.

Essential reading for parents
Dr. Birmaher has been treating kids and adolescents and doing research on pediatric bipolar disorder for many years, and speaks from both clinical experience and from research findings.Contains current info on treatment, and many tips for how parents can get the help their children need and reduce stress and increase flexibility.One of the best books available for parents on the topic.

Your ticket of entry to best possible care
Professor Birmaher's book represents the latest in scientific understanding and clinical approaches for recognizing and responding to Bipolar Disorder in children and teens. A researcher of note, Professor Birmaher has been able to translate the most up-to-date research data into a supportive, simple and effective text for concerned parents and others wanting to take the best course of action. The inclusion of clear and detailed diagnostic advice, treatment and management strategies, and test instruments makes 'New Hope for Children and Teens with Bipolar Disorder' an accessible foundation text for both new and experienced clinicians working with young people. ... Read more

Book Description
This book presents the epidemiology and risk factors for bipolar disorder.It lays out the diagnosis of bipolar disorder as well as its subtypes, the differential diagnosis and comorbidity and the neurobiology and neuropsychology of the disorder.Strategies and treatment considerations are presented with chapters on antimanic and antidepressant agents. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

doctor lingo
Get this book only if you can understand the doctor language because that is pretty much all it is.It only explains the chemical process in your brain, etc. instead of how to deal. ... Read more

Book Description
A stunning picture of the internal experience of young people with bipolar disorder as relayed in their own words.Readers come away filled with compassion, admiration, and hope. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

a must-read for parents, health care professionals, and teachers
As a parent of a child with bipolar disorder, and a health care professional, I strongly urge everyone who interacts with these children to read this book. It is the only one I know of that explains the disease through the eyes, ears and feelings of the child or adolescent. It gave me insights I never could have obtained through medical literature, or even from my own child.

Don't bother
This books has the makings of a great read -- comments by people going through this disorder -- a look through their eyes.However, it really is just boring and not that insightful.Much more compelling is being on a listserv or group on the internet and sharing other families stories.Some of their posts have been what I thought this book would be.Check it out of the library -- but really barely worth your time to read.Buy The Bipolar Child by Papolos -- much better!

A Must-Read
Parents of bipolar kids are among my favorite people. Despite the terrible illness that brings us together, I always manage to part company on a feel-good note. Maybe it's their love and dedication and intelligence and optimism in the face of circumstances that would leave anyone else embittered and demoralized. Maybe it's their sixth sense for projecting the kind of empathy that can't be faked.

One of these individuals is Tracy Anglada, whom I met last summer at a conference in Stockton, CA that featured Dr Papolos and Janice Papolos. I was there in a dual role as a reporter for this Newsletter and to work up a pre-publication buzz for my soon-to-be-released book. The organizers of the conference kindly allowed me a table to exhibit my wares. One of my fellow exhibitors was Tracy, and we found lots of time to talk.

Tracy is a Florida mom who started up her own organization, BPChildren, dedicated to helping young people and adults understand more about pediatric bipolar. She is the author of "Intense Minds: Through the Eyes of Young People with Bipolar Disorder."

One quick look at the opening paragraphs, and you will drop everything you're doing:

"A broad smile spread across my son's face. His eyes shone brightly and he turned to me to share his good news. What was the cause of excitement for my 6-year-old son? We were at a meeting, and the speaker was describing the horrible plight of the Biblical man Job.

"'Job was so sick, he wanted to die,' said the speaker.

"What was my son's good news in response to that statement? Two simple words: "Like me!" He had finally found someone he could relate to, someone else who wanted to die. It was comforting for him to know he was not alone. It was no comfort to me. As a parent, those were the worst words I could have heard."

This is a book where the kids (or adults recalling their tormented childhoods) get to tell their stories. It's designed for kids to read, but any clinician or educator or other interested party who does not buy a copy is guilty of malpractice. Listen:

"I was told how retarded, demonized and horrible a child I was. So I never felt I was wonderful or good." (Dawn)

"I was trying to survive in an environment that was not the same to me as it was to other people." (Tasha)

"It feels like a ping pong ball going from one side to the other in my head - one bounce telling me to stay quiet, the other bounce telling me to scream." (Tim)

"My dreams were scary. I was zipped in a bag of water in my closet drowning, while bad guys were trying to kill my daddy." (Steven)
In case you still think we're forcing meds on kids:

"I would have been better off being treated if I had been diagnosed properly. I was miserable as a child. Horribly miserable." (Lee)

And, last but not least, the good we can take away from all this:

"I use this illness to my advantage. Be strong and remember where you have been and what you have been through. If I beat those days, I can beat anything now that I know the illness, the symptoms and the feelings of it." (Linda)

A Helpful Perspective on Early-Onset Bipolar Disorder
I found this book to be valuable in that it helped me get a better perspective on what it feels like to the child/youth experiencing shifts in mood states over time.I had not seen another book like it, and was very interested in what kids themselves had to say about bi-polar disorder. Even as a parent of an EOBP child, after reading through this book I realized I had not fully considered how he processed his disorder internally - both prior to as well as post dx.The narratives represented here are in the kids own words, with brief summaries and segues between topics provided by the author.There is very little disorder overview or treatment commentary.The experiences cover a wide spectrum of experiences in this often misunderstood, misdiagnosed disorder.There is no uniform experience of bipolar disorder, despite overlapping symptomologies.

It is difficult enough to get an accurate diagnosis for a child/youth with bipolar disorder.Gaining greater insight into what the child thinks about their own cycling (because they are not likely telling you) is incredibly valuable.After reading this book I had a much better idea of what kids go through as well as what works/what doesn't as far as day-to-day management, and why.It definitely boosted my compassion quotient.I recommend this book to anyone who works with or parents a bi-polar child.

A very important book
I really, really love this book. As I was reading, I thought of many people I would like to share it with. Even after living with this disease for 5 years, I still found much to learn. I saw my kids, and I caught a glimmer of what they must be experiencing, but cannot express in words. Thank you so much for writing it......Mother of two children with bipolar disorder
... Read more

Book Description

Depression is a deceptively common illness. At some point in their lives, one out of every five people will struggle with bouts of depression, and nearly twice as many women will be affected as men.

At the outset, depression can seem quite similar to the sadness or low moods that we all feel from time to time. As the illness progresses, however, work life, social life and intimate relationships all suffer. The affected person loses interest in those around him, feels exhausted and hopeless and often considers "giving up."

In Depression and Bipolar Disorders, Dr. Virginia Edwards explores the causes, symptoms and treatment of depressions. Topics include:

• normal versus abnormal depression
• unipolar depressive disorders
• bipolar depressive disorders
• biological and psychosocial therapies
• depression in women and the elderly
• treatment options, including involuntary hospitalization
• suicide.

This comprehensive examination of depression also features case studies and an extensive resource list.

Book Description

Manic behavior holds an undeniable fascination in American culture today. It fuels the plots of best-selling novels and the imagery of MTV videos, is acknowledged as the driving force for successful entrepreneurs like Ted Turner, and is celebrated as the source of the creativity of artists like Vincent Van Gogh and movie stars like Robin Williams. Bipolar Expeditions seeks to understand mania's appeal and how it weighs on the lives of Americans diagnosed with manic depression.

Anthropologist Emily Martin guides us into the fascinating and sometimes disturbing worlds of mental-health support groups, mood charts, psychiatric rounds, the pharmaceutical industry, and psychotropic drugs. Charting how these worlds intersect with the wider popular culture, she reveals how people living under the description of bipolar disorder are often denied the status of being fully human, even while contemporary America exhibits a powerful affinity for manic behavior. Mania, Martin shows, has come to be regarded as a distant frontier that invites exploration because it seems to offer fame and profits to pioneers, while depression is imagined as something that should be eliminated altogether with the help of drugs.

Bipolar Expeditions argues that mania and depression have a cultural life outside the confines of diagnosis, that the experiences of people living with bipolar disorder belong fully to the human condition, and that even the most so-called rational everyday practices are intertwined with irrational ones.

Customer Reviews (1)

Bravo
As someone experienced with the ups and down of depression and anxiety, I am so grateful for this book. In "Bipolar Expeditions," Martin gives us an honest and unflinching look at the lives people lead with mania and the way depression in general is shaping our world. This work should be read by everyone and anyone affected by mental illness and those looking to understand the drastic shift from 'slow and steady wins the race' to 'last one to the finish line is a rotten egg.'

P.S. Not only is there no mention of polar bears in this book, there is no 'misleading' title to indicate that possibility. ... Read more

Book Description
Writing a prize-winning play; spending a week doing nothing but build Lego constructions; sinking all his savings into wildly impractical money-making schemes - these are just some results of the periods of intense energy Brian Adams has experienced. As a sufferer of bipolar disorder, he has also been hospitalized several times with debilitating depression and undergone electric shock treatment, and gained and lost eleven jobs.

This engaging, humorous and sometimes startling account gives rich insight into how it feels to experience this mental health disorder. It is illuminating reading for people with mental health problems, and their family and professional carers. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (10)

exceptional work
This book helps both the parent of a bipolar child as well as the trained professional.It is an insight into the illness written in a way that is easy to follow, yet full of extremely valuable information.I have purchased many copies of this book in order to pass this information on to those parents I know who are struggling with their bipolar children.The idea of being a "good enough" parent has really helped me with my own daughter.I would highly recommend this book to anyone in search of information, or purely curiosity.It is an excellent read.

The best book I have read on this topic
I am a psychologist who works with bipolar adolescents and adults and I think this book is the best I have read on this topic.
This is a kind and gentle book that shows great understanding of the problems and strengths of the bipolar child. This is a wonderfully written book without jargon, which accurately describes the good, the hard and the complicated of being a child or raising a child with this disease.This book also deals with the secondary problems children face such as drug and alcohol use and other risk taking behaviors.
The author describes in detail how such children function from preschool through young adulthood. There is an important section of the difference between bipolar disorder and ADD.And, there are clear recommendations as to how to deal with the difficulties bipolar children have in ways that don't punish the child or the parent.
Actually, his suggestions are great for parents with children who are not bipolar.
What comes across is this is a caring book written by a caring doctor.

This is a great book
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and just recently sat down to read the book cover to cover. Dr. Lombardo is a gifted teacher who presents ideas and concepts in such a fashion that the recommendations he gives to parents make sense.I especially was glad that he acknowledges that parents need to be good enough, not perfect.As Dr. Lombardo phrased it: "perfect is the enemy of good" (pg 62). I think this is very validating to parents of bipolar children who all too often get unspoken messages from others that defective parenting skills are the cause of the bipolar's child's behaviors.As if in a "hats off" to parents of bipolar children, Dr. Lombardo states:"It takes courage to acknowledge the presence of bipolar disorder, in ourselves and in our children....Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to do the right thing in the presence of fear" (pg 276).

Suzanne C. Simon -- psychotherapist
I am a psychotherapist with some 20 years of experience, but I do not deal directly with children. I was drawn to this book in an effort to learn more about a field that is outside my own. I found it to be an amazing work. In the first place,itmakes a major contribution to the problems raised in understanding and parenting a bipolar child. It presents the very latest knowledge in the field,in clear and lucid language, beautifully organized and wholly understandable to the lay person. I found it particulary useful because it also deals with the positive aspects of this illness, such as the extraordinary sensitivity and creativity that many of these children manifest. Its coverage is complete, extending from infancy into adolescence.But beyond that, it successfully places those problems in the much broader context of human psychological and personality development in general. For example, the chapter dealing with saying "No" to young children contains a brilliant analysis applicable to all children or even,for that matter, to adults. At the end of the book there is a thorough discussion of the many different types of treatment available, together with a reference guide to the latest medications. I can recommend it without hesitation both to parents and professionals.Indeed, I will be recommending this book to those of my own patients who have problems with their children, even though they may not necessarily be diagnosed as bipolar.

Parent/Educator
I?m a parent that tacklesfamily problems with books, support groups, therapy, whatever it takes. I read Dr. Lombardo?sbook only 6 months or so into the diagnosis of bipolar disorder for my 13 year old son,after the nightmarish depressions, poor and nasty psychiatrists, after reading 4 books -- The Bipolar Child (twice), Acquainted with the Night, Jamison?s book (can?t remember the name), and some other book on alternative therapies for bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses, and after spending countless hours talking toparentsonlineand learning about meds, side effects, behavioral issues.

As a single parent, with an MA and a PhD in fields of psychology and education,I can honestlytell you that I learned quite a bit from Dr. Lombardo?s book.Here?s what I found?.

The perspective Dr. Lombardo has on child development as a teacher, psychiatrist, and one who has suffered from bipolar disorder greatly enhances, and lends credibilityto his ability to differentially diagnose typical and atypical behaviors in children.Furthermore,the information on the differential diagnosis ofADHD versus BP from the neurological and behavioral perspective was very clearly presented, highly informative, and points to the need for expert care for children with these disorders.

The overall developmental approach is extremely valuablebecause, behaviors and life issues change through development, and is helpful to look ahead to see what might be coming along.Additionallly, some of the more subtle behavioral and cognitive issues that children with BP face is discussed and NOT COVERED in the other books I?ve read ? including a discussion of the concomitant disorders that some kids face along with bipolar disorder.

The review of the meds was excellent, partitioned clearly, and will be a helpful resource guide. As for the structure,I overall liked the format, where some of the critical issues are set out from the rest of the text. Only boring part for me was some of the case studies ? written more for a psychiatric textbook than for a parent.

All in all, I found the book to be an excellent companion to the Bipolar Child and highly recommend it ?. For the novice parent and the ?experienced parent?.I also think this book should be required reading for school psychologists and social workers! At least one of these 2 books, please.
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