Shrink Rap (Psychology Books) discussion

Hi,
Can anyone recommend a good book(s) on bipolar disorder. I am looking for something that would be good for families dealing with a loved one who has been recently diagnosed. Please keep in mind that some of the family members are a little skeptical of the diagnosis. I am at a loss. I would appreciate any guidance.
Best,
Jo

I keep hearing that the book "An Unquiet Mind" is supposed to be a great picture of the diagnosis. I have yet to read it myself but I've heard it's great. It's like a biographical account from someone who's been through bipolar. Hope that helps :)

thank you

I'd be interested in a book that explains what causes it, e.g., what brain abnormalities it arises from?

Seems like there are explanations for everything from depression, OCD, ADHD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, etc., that relate to neurochemical imbalances.

But, to my knowledge, no such explanation for bi-polar.

Just a quick post to your question about neurology & bipolar. There have been relations shown between bipolar disorder & the amygdala & hippocampus, particularly the sizes of these brain regions. I don't have a specific book to recommend, but suggest you google "bipolar amygdala hippocampus" & you'll find many links on this subject.

~Geri~

"An Unquiet Mind" was written by Kay Redfield Jamison. Not only is she bipolar, she is also a psychiatrist who specializes in the disorder and has written several other books, including "Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide," "Touched With Fire: Manic Depressive Illness and the Artistic Temperament," and several textbooks on Bipolar.

I loved "An Unquiet Mind" and have read it many times. I have met Dr Jamison at a couple of book signings and have been moved by her presentations. Also try "An Unholy Ghost" writers on depression. Although not specifically about bipolar, it has many companion pieces which are pieces written by individual with the illness and then their family member writes a similar essay from their perspective. I was looking at a book yesterday at Barnes and Noble yesterday called, "Bipolar Demystified." It looks like a good book but might be too overwhelming for some people. Good luck!