Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a common condition affecting around 1 in 100 adults at some point in their lives. Worldwide, it affects about 254 million people, with 2.4 million in the UK. The exact nature of someone's illness will be unique to them. These moods typically swing between low or 'depressive', with feelings of intense unhappiness and despair, and high or 'manic', with feelings of supreme confidence, euphoria and boundless energy. Having bipolar disorder can be a frightening, bewildering experience, especially before diagnosis and treatment. This book will help readers understand bipolar disorder and the kind of help available for the condition. It will explain the causes of bipolar disorder, its symptoms and effects, how a diagnosis is made and how it's possible to lead a happy and fulfilling life by managing the condition with the correct treatments. There will also be information for friends and family close to someone with bipolar disorder. Wide target audience - bipolar disorder sufferers, friends,family, professionals. • Clear concise stepby-step guide. • Includes detailed help list