The Bipolar Workbook (tools For Controlling Your Mood Swings)

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong challenge, but it doesn''t have to rule your life. Join the many tens of thousands of readers who have used the science-based tools in this book to achieve greater balance and get the most out of treatment. Leading expert Dr. Monica Ramirez Basco helps you understand the nature of bipolar illness and recognize the early warning signs of mood swings. Step-by-step exercises (you can download and print additional copies of the forms as needed) give you greater insight into your own triggers, vulnerabilities, and strengths. Dr. Basco guides you to build the particular skills you need to withstand the seductive pull of manic episodes and escape the paralysis of depression. You''ll also learn key strategies for managing stress, making healthy decisions, and solving problems. Vivid stories and examples illustrate how to put the techniques into action. Significantly revised, the second edition features a new structure, more succinct chapters, and streamlined exercises.

Step 1. Get the Big Picture
1. Understand How You Can Control Your Mood Swings
2. Learn about the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
3. Distinguish Symptoms from the Real You
Step 2. See It Coming
4. Recognize and Label Your Moods
5. Identify Triggers and Improve Coping
Step 3. Don''t Make It Worse
6. Avoid Things That Make You Feel Worse
7. Don''t Let Your Emotions Control Your Thoughts
8. Stop Avoidance and Procrastination
Step 4. Reduce Your Symptoms
9. Regain Control When You Feel Overwhelmed
10. Change Your Negative Outlook
11. Analyze Your Thoughts
12. Work through Denial about Needing Medication
13. Improve Medication Consistency
Step 5. Strengthen Your Coping Skills
14. Effectively Solve Problems
15. Strengthen Stress Management Skills and Healthy Habits
16. Make Better Decisions
17. Maintain Your Gains
Resources

"For those on the bipolar spectrum--as well as loved ones who want to understand and help--this book is empathic, respectful, empowering, and accessible. Dr. Basco''s deep understanding of the illness is evident. The steps in this book can help you strengthen your commitment to treatment, practice essential coping skills, and achieve greater stability."--Cory F. Newman, PhD, ABPP, Center for Cognitive Therapy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

"This workbook provides essential strategies for coping with mood swings and intense emotions. Dr. Basco explains step by step how to manage the mix of depression and mania symptoms that typically goes along with bipolar disorder. A fantastic book and a ''must read.''"--Thilo Deckersbach, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School

"Having suffered with bipolar disorder for years, I am grateful for Dr. Basco''s well-organized, easy-to-understand guidance on how to live with this illness. The book contains numerous useful exercises that help you organize your thoughts in a logical way. It helps you understand your symptoms and moods and teaches realistic coping strategies so you can get your life back."--Erin B.

"Dr. Basco once again hits it out of the park with this clear and concise workbook. This book can have a profound effect on improving the quality of life of anyone with bipolar illness."--Daniel J. Taylor, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of North Texas

"A great book has gotten even better. The Workbook is an invaluable aidto managing bipolar disorder and achieving sustained wellness. I highly recommend this lucidly written book to people with bipolar illness and their families and friends."--Madhukar H. Trivedi, MD, Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Ce