Bipolar Disorder

When you have bipolar disorder, it can sometimes seem like mood swings are keeping you from being the person you want to be. You may alternate between feelings of depression and overexcitement even though what you really want is to find a healthy balance between the two. This easy-to-use workbook presents a set of skills you can learn that will help you find that balance, become more independent, and stay focused on the big-picture goals that are most important to you. The Bipolar Workbook for Teens includes exercises and worksheets that will help you learn skills drawn from a special technique called dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT skills can help people with bipolar disorder improve their relationships with friends and family and calm themselves when their emotions get really overwhelming. Working through this book will help you: Recognize and respond to your emotional triggers Create a crisis plan and find support Get a handle on addictive behavior Maintain friendships and get along with your family

When you travel to a new city, it helps to have a map close at hand. On the first day of school, you need to have your schedule of classes. And if you've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or suspect you may have it, then it's even more important to have a guidebook within reach. Facing Bipolar will help you navigate the world of medications, therapists, and the up-and-down mood cycles common to the disorder. It clearly explains what bipolar disorder is and provides sound guidance for developing the necessary coping skills to manage its impact on your life. In this book you'll discover: How therapy and medications can help When and how to tell your friends, roommates, and teachers The four key factors that will bring more stability to your life How to develop a support network and access college resources Ways to overcome the challenges in accepting this illness

By reading the pages of this book, children and adults alike will get a rare glimpse into the private feelings and fears of a bipolar child. Children with bipolar disorder will be able to identify with Brandon's moods as he cycles between depression and mania. They will be comforted along with Brandon as he learns that he is not the only one who struggles with this inner turmoil. They will be educated as he learns what the illness is, how people get it and why there is hope for him to feel better. This story is appropriate for children between 4 and 11 years of age. However it will also be indispensable to parents, health care workers, teachers, grandparents and anyone else who cares about a child with bipolar disorder. It will increase understanding and awareness of this serious illness.