Memoir #1

An Unquiet Mind - This book is not only an excellect book for anyone wishing to understand what is like to live with mental illness, particularly bipolar disorder, but is simply a great read. Written be Kay Redfield Jamison, a Professor of Psychiatry, and once a working clinical Psychologist, she has become an expert in bipolar disease. But Jamison's professional credentials are not what make this book such as arresting memoir; what creates the honesty of this account is the fact that Jamison has lived with bipolar disease herself since a teen. The momentous challenges that she face, including mania that propelled her into psychosis and depression that lead to a suicide attempt, makes this book both authentic, and informed. She discusses such issues as the refusal to take medication from the perspective of the healer and the one in need of healing. I highly suggest this book for better insight into what your child is and will face and also to give encouragement; there is hope for both success in their personal and professional lives.

Advice for caregivers #3

Surviving Schizophrenia - This is comprehensive overview of schizophrenia. Torrey is a psychiatrist who specializes in both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. His knowledge of the disease is extensive and he also has a personal understanding; his sister is afflicted with the disease. After an easily read overview of the history of, the politics of, and the science of schizophrenia, Torry touches on most of the main concerns of families. Besides the usual discussion of symtoms and treatments, he covers major problems that patients and their caregivers face and gives excellent advice, perhaps the best I have found so far, on how to respond to everyday situations.

Advice for caregivers #2

When Someone You Love Has a Mental Illness - This book is a general guide to most of the major difficulties of dealing with a mentally ill family member. However, I did not find much depth past a summary and listing of common sense tactics. Still it would be be a good starting point for someone just beginning to read about caring for the mentally ill before delving into more substantial works.

Advice for caregivers #1

How to Live with a Mentally Ill Person - Written by the mother of a schizophrenic daughter, this is a good resource for those dealing with a mentally ill relative. It gives detailed advice on day to day matters such as medicine compliance, suicide threats, anger, bizarre behavior, and more. But is also discusses emotions that the caregiver him/hersolf goes through and suggests concrete steps that can be taken to alleviate some of the most common problems that caretakers face. Another plus is its helpful appendices on resources and its substantial bibliography.