Best Bipolar Disorder Resources
Recommended reading
After the initial diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and before the acceptance stage even happens, there's a strong urge to find out more about it for the sufferer and hopefully from their carers, family and friends.
Bipolar Disorder is on such a continuum that it is always good to remember that everyone is unique. You will find all kinds of information online; some of it you will relate to and some of it you won't. Although people will quote lists of symptoms and try to give you a sub-classification, this doesn't mean that it will necessarily be completely accurate. This doesn't make you an unusual or untreatable case, it just makes you YOU.
The best thing you can do for your health is to visit you medical practitioner regularly, and take your medication as prescribed. If you have any medical problems then discuss them, don't keep it to yourself. Doctors are there to help you, not judge you, and if they do judge get a second opinion.
Believe me, I know from personal experience, how hard the road to recovery can be.
Official and nonprofit webpages
Many countries have websites that are aimed to help you achieve mental wellness and provide support when you're not feeling good. They have great free resources and can point you in the direction of local agencies, practitioners and support groups.
Some examples are shown below:
USA
Canada
UK
Australia
International
A brief note from Stephen Fry...
Stephen Fry has made a television series with the BBC about Bipolar disorder (manic depression).
Below is a short commentary that he gave to introduce the show and explain how he came to be diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder himself.
My hero: John McManamy
For in depth information from a patients point of view John McManamy is my absolute favourite. In my opinion he has THE best Bipolar resource on the web.
He has also written a very popular book on the subject shown above.
- McMan\'s Depression and Bipolar Web
Articles on depression and bipolar disorder by John McManamy.
Basket Weaving for Beginners....
There's a personal website of a fellow traveller in the world of bipolarity that I would recommend you visit.
It's full of useful information and plenty of humour; aptly named "basket weaving for beginners" in honour of those of use who have spent any time in the hospital craft room learning to weave said baskets :-)
This site has been recommended by the UK Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Online forums
Online forums give you the chance to ask questions anonymously and also see the kinds of questions that other people are asking.
Sometimes when you have a mental health issue it's very difficult to meet with people face to face to discuss things that can be very disturbing. Forums can give you a sense of community without a feeling of being exposed or overwhelmed.
Examples of online forums are below, and you can also go ahead and find your own niche.
Finding out who you are
If you suddenly find yourself with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder you can lose your of sense of who you are. Remember that you are not defined by your disorder.
Often you will feel the need to find a sense of meaning and purpose in your life. Spend some time getting to know yourself and be your own best friend. Find out what you like and what you are good at. Value yourself and give yourself compassion. Often we can be our own worst enemy.
There a quite a few personality tests that you can find online, which will help you to discover what kind of profession you would be best suited for. An example of one of these personality.
Believe me you ARE worth it... :-)
Other great related Hubs
- 5 Signs You're Going into a Bipolar Episode
Five warning signs that you're going into a bipolar episode. - I am Bipolar-Tips On How To Cope With Bipolar Disorder
Some really great coping skills for Bipolar Disorder also known as Manic depression. - Famous People With Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar Musicians
Showing that many people are creative and successful and still have Bipolar Disorder - New hope for youth with psychosis: Recovery expected!
How early intervention is very helpful in psychosis,plus many more resources
Footnote: Scientific research around the world
For CatSimmons' Homepage on HubPages, click here
To join HubPages, click here
