TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword by Peter C. Whybrow, M.D.
Author’s Note
PART ONE: LIVING THE BIPOLAR LIFE
Introduction: Welcome to the Tightrope
1 Strutting on the Tightrope: Mania and Hypomania
2 Descending into Darkness: Depression
3 Losing All Hope: Suicide
4 Realizing There’s a Problem: Recognition
PART TWO: SEPARATING STRANDS
5 Probing the Pathology: Diagnosis
6 Untangling Complications: Mimicking and Co-occurring
Conditions
7 Uncovering Root Causes: Biochemistry and Genetics
8 Delving Deep Inside: Personality
9 Reflecting on Childhood: Upbringing
10 Encountering Snarls: Stress and Trauma
PART THREE: MAINTAINING BALANCE
11 Building a Foundation: First Things First
12 Seeking Medical Treatment: Medications and Procedures
13 Expressing Your Emotions: "Talk Therapy"
14 Exploring Nonmedical Options: Alternatives and Complements
15 Finding Firmer Footing: Lifestyle Adjustments
16 Shifting Your Perspective: From Wishes to Reality
17 Being All That You Can Be: Creativity and Self-Fulfillment
18 Taking Leaps of Faith: Spirituality and Transcendence
19 Helping Others: When Someone You Know Has a Mood Disorder
20 Living Beyond Labels: Overcoming Stigma and Advocating for
Change
Epilogue: Moving Toward Solid Ground
- Medications Appendix
- Notes
- Bibliography
- Resources
- Glossary
- Acknowledgments
- Index
