'A practical, straightforward book that will be a great help to those who have bipolar illness, as well as their families.' - Kay Redfield Jamison, PhD, author of An Unquiet Mind; 'Dr. Miklowitz's book is both impressive and very humane... This book should be required reading for people with the disorder, their family members, and the physicians and therapists who treat them.' - Demitri F. Papolos, MD, and Janice Papolos, authors of Overcoming Depression and The Bipolar Child; 'Dr. Miklowitz's pioneering research has proven that education about bipolar disorder and its treatment can actually affect the course of the illness, even though it stems from biological causes. This authoritative, eminently readable book provides just the right tools for patients and families seeking to lessen the impact of this disorder on their lives.' - Frederick K. Goodwin, MD, George Washington University Medical Center

Preface. Part I: The Diagnosis and Course of Bipolar Disorder. "Why Do I Need this Book?" What Bipolar Disorder Looks Like - to You, to the Doctors, and to Everyone Else. Into the Doctor's Court: What to Expect from the Diagnostic Process. "Is it an Illness or is it Me?": Tips on Coping with the Diagnosis. Part II: Causes and Treatments. Where Does Bipolar Disorder Come from?: Genetics, Biology, and Stress. "What Can Medication and Psychotherapy Do for Me?". Coming to Terms with Your Medication. Part III: Self-Management. "How Can I Manage My Disorder?": Practical Ways to Maintain Wellness. "What Can I Do if I Think I'm Getting Manic?" "What Can I Do if I Think I'm Getting Depressed?" Dealing with Suicidal Thoughts and Feelings. Coping Effectively in Family and Work Settings. Resources for People with Bipolar Disorder. Self-Rated Mood Chart. Self-Rated Social Rhythm Chart.