As a Psychiatrist, I have read many writings on Bipolar Disorder. The writings by mental health professionals have tended to provide information and insights from a clinician/researcher point of view. While these documents gave the reader information, it was often difficult for patients and non-medical individuals to understand and incorporate the information into their daily lives. On the other hand, writings by individuals with mental illnesses, family members or friends, tend to be autobiographical. They are interesting, but only chronicled one person’s journey. This book was written as a collaborative between an individual with a mental illness and his primary support person. This book is written using the language, which anyone can understand and individualize. At this time, it is paramount for consumers, friends, and family and support groups to be active participants in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder. The ability to be a positive, contributing member of the mental health team starts with knowledge. The ability to communicate effectively with professionals and nonprofessionals is essential for maximum medical/emotional benefit. This book provides an excellent source of information to anyone who has or is associated with individuals having Bipolar Disorder. I highly recommend this book as part of the resources available to educate and empower those trying to control and maintain stability with Bipolar Disorder.

- Ollie R. Mack, J.D., M.D.

A quick and easy reference to help understand Bipolar Disorder James Witschner and Marcia Rose 

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ABILIFY (aripiprazole) This medication works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemical in the brain. Side effects are vomiting, fever, lightheadedness, dizziness, change in weight, blurred vision or drowsiness may occur. Serious side effects are irregular or unusually fast heartbeat, severe muscle stiffness, uncontrolled muscle movements, unusual increase in thirst or urination, vision changes

ADHD Since the 1940s, psychiatrists have applied various labels to children who are hyperactive and inordinately inattentive and impulsive. Such youngsters have been considered to have minimal brain dysfunction, brain-injured child syndrome, hyper kinetic reaction of childhood, hyperactive child syndrome and, most recently, attention-deficit disorder. The frequent name changes reflect how uncertain researchers have been about the underlying causes of, and even the precise diagnostic criteria for, the disorder. Within the past several years, however, those who study ADHD have begun to clarify its symptoms and causes and have found that it may have a genetic underpinning. Today's view of the basis of the condition is strikingly different from that of just a few years ago. They are finding that ADHD is not a disorder of attention, per se, as had long been assumed. Rather it arises as a developmental failure in the brain circuitry that underlies inhibition and self-control. This loss of self-control, in turn, impairs other important brain functions crucial for maintaining attention, including the ability to defer immediate rewards for later, greater gain. ADHD involves two sets of symptoms: inattention and a combination of hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. Boys are at least three times as likely as girls to develop the disorder. ADHD usually arises between the ages of three and five. Even so, the age of onset can vary widely.

AFFECTIVE DISORDER This is a term to describe individuals who exhibit any extreme mood in no particular order.

ANTIDEPRESSANTS Medications developed primarily to treat and relieve symptoms of depression. (See addenda medication)

ANTI-PSYCHOTICS Medications used to treat severe distortions in thought perception and emotion. Beginning with the introduction of chlorpromazine in 1952, conventional anti-psychotics share a common characteristic of blocking the dopamine receptors in the brain, but they must have other points of entry as well. In most cases, the exact mechanism by which these substances work is partly or completely unknown. There is no psychological or physical dependence.

ATIVAN (lorazepam) This medication belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. In this you would find, among others, Valium, Zane and Librium. These are used for sedation in anxiety disorders and to help to induce sleep in panic disorders. They are addictive in a physical and psychological way. Withdrawal for those taking Aptiva for an extended time could be similar to those noted with barbiturates, (convulsions, cramps, vomiting, and sweating). This medication should not be stopped abruptly but tapered off according to doctor’s instructions. Ativan has a depressant effect when used with alcohol.