Bipolar Disorders: Mixed States, Rapid Cycling and Atypical Forms

by Andreas Marneros (Editor), Frederick Goodwin (Editor)

Bipolar disorder manifests itself in a variety of forms. It can coexist with other psychiatric conditions, and treatment efficacy can depend on the type of bipolar state. This book covers the full range of atypical, rapid cycling and transient forms of bipolar disorder, from atypical and agitated depression to schizoaffective mixed states. The most recent ICD category is covered, and the authors also look at the biology and genetics of bipolar disorder, along with issues relating to age (children and the elderly), comorbidity, choice of drug treatment and investigational strategies.

Genres: Mental Health

406 pages, Hardcover

First published September 29, 2001

Reviews

[Marian Weaver · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ah, the frustration of reading an e-book that isn't properly formatted. It's bad enough in fiction, but when you have about 1000 footnotes, it's maddening. No pun intended.

Most of the popularly available literature on bipolar disorders have very narrow characterisations of both mania and depression. Marneros argues persuasively - and backs up with data - that the true picture is far more complex. Someone in the grip of mania may still experience the harrowing self-destructive thought patterns usually linked with depression, for example. These studies led directly to changing the diagnostic criteria, and as a result, treatment is now far better targeted.

This is an incredibly interesting read if you can plow through the dry, academic tone. Seriously, I must have missed that class at uni, because so many research papers read like a printed version of the Sahara Desert that they must teach how to write like that. Ahem.