Living Well With Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is an often misunderstood (and misdiagnosed) disorder. Our guest this week is a psychotherapist who has worked with many individuals with this diagnosis. He discusses the nature of the disease, therapy plans for treatment, and the multi-phase stabilization process. He also talks about the “Grand Bargain” between the bipolar person and his/her family, which helps keep everyone informed. Most importantly, he makes it very clear that bipolar disorder is a very manageable disease that will not prevent someone from leading a stable, satisfying life, on one’s own terms, rather than the terms dictated by the disease.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS  

What is the clinical definition of bipolar disorder? What’s the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II? Is mania really as awesome as some people believe? Why is bipolar disorder so frequently misdiagnosed?

Hosted by Gabe Howard and Vincent M. Wales. Previous episodes can be found at psychcentral.com/show or on your favorite podcast player.