Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and it can be difficult for others to understand the daily struggles that come with it. Fortunately, books written by and for people with bipolar disorder can offer comfort and insight into managing the condition.
The Mighty bipolar community has shared their favorite books on the subject, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to learn more, feel understood, and find hope.
1. “His Bright Light” by Danielle Steel
Danielle Steel, a renowned romance novelist, shares her personal story in this memoir about her son Nick, who struggled with bipolar disorder and eventually passed away at the age of 19. Through Nick’s poetry and music, Steel portrays the highs and lows of bipolar disorder and the challenges of caring for a loved one with mental illness.
The book has been praised for its ability to provide insight and understanding into the experience of living with bipolar disorder. One reader, Hope G., noted that the book helped her to better comprehend her own diagnosis and recognize when to seek help. “His Bright Light” is a moving tribute to Nick and an important resource for those impacted by mental illness.
2. “Crazy Is My Superpower” by AJ Mendez
AJ Mendez, a retired WWE wrestler, shares her story of growing up in poverty and dealing with mental illness in her book “Crazy Is My Superpower.” Mendez discusses her struggles with bipolar disorder and the challenges of being misdiagnosed with depression before finally receiving the correct diagnosis.
Despite these difficulties, Mendez was able to pursue a career in professional wrestling and become a WWE wrestler. This inspiring memoir is a must-read for anyone who has dealt with mental illness or faced adversity in their life.
3. “Madness: A Bipolar Life” by Marya Hornbacher
In “Madness: A Bipolar Life,” Marya Hornbacher shares her experience with type 1 rapid-cycle bipolar disorder. This memoir serves as a follow-up to her first book, which focused on her eating disorder.
Hornbacher also delves into her struggles with drugs, self-harm, and suicide attempts. Vanessa L. found the book helpful when she was first diagnosed as a teenager because Hornbacher discusses the warning signs of her mood disorder in her youth. The book provides insight into the complexities of bipolar disorder and the challenges of managing it.
4. “Manic, A Memoir” by Terri Cheney
In her memoir, Terri Cheney shares her experiences as a successful entertainment lawyer living with bipolar disorder. The book offers a unique perspective on mental illness and has resonated with readers, such as Maria A., who found it helpful in working through their own struggles.
5. “Mental: Lithium, Love, and Losing My Mind” by Jaime Lowe
Jaime Lowe’s memoir “Mental: Lithium, Love, and Losing My Mind” recounts her experience with bipolar disorder and the role that lithium played in her treatment. Lowe describes how her symptoms began at age 16, including hallucinations, insomnia, and loss of appetite, before she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and prescribed lithium.
The memoir not only details Lowe’s personal struggles with mania and finding stability but also delves into the history and science behind lithium, providing valuable information for those seeking to better understand the medication.
6. “An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness” by Kay Redfield Jamison
Kay Redfield Jamison, a psychologist who lives with bipolar disorder, shares her personal experiences and clinical knowledge of the illness in “An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness.” The book provides a unique perspective on bipolar disorder from both the patient’s and the therapist’s point of view.
Jamison intertwines the clinical facts with her own experiences, making it a must-read for anyone who has or loves someone with bipolar disorder. The book offers insight into the challenges faced by those with bipolar disorder and the impact it has on their lives.
7. “A Brilliant Madness: Living With Manic Depressive Illness” by Patty Duke and Gloria Hochman
Patty Duke, an Oscar-winning actress, collaborated with journalist Gloria Hochman to provide insight and guidance on bipolar disorder. This book has been described as informative and comforting by readers.
8. “The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide” by David J. Miklowitz
“The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide” is a comprehensive resource that provides practical strategies for dealing with every aspect of bipolar disorder. It offers step-by-step instructions and information about different kinds of treatment.
This book is a valuable resource for individuals with bipolar disorder who are looking to take control of their illness and live and work productively without the cycles having a detrimental impact. According to Nic M., it is an “absolutely invaluable resource” for beginning to draw up relapse prevention plans for both hypomanic and depressive symptoms, and a “brilliant CBT-style workbook.”
9. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
Sylvia Plath’s novel, “The Bell Jar,” portrays the protagonist’s mental breakdown and suicide attempt, drawing from Plath’s own experiences with mental illness. The book was published just a month before Plath’s death by suicide. Many readers have found solace in the novel, with one reader stating, “I felt so known when I read it. Finally had words for my feelings.”
10. “Lost Marbles: Insight Into My Life With Bipolar and Depression” by Natasha Tracy
Natasha Tracy’s book, “Lost Marbles: Insight Into My Life With Bipolar and Depression,” provides an authentic account of her personal experience with bipolar disorder. The book also offers practical advice for individuals who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, as well as their loved ones.
Readers have praised the book for its realistic portrayal of the disorder and its ability to provide a sense of validation for those who struggle with similar experiences. One reader, Cierra B., describes the book as a “good read” that helps to explain the realness of the emotions and feelings associated with bipolar disorder.
11. “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie
“How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie is a book that provides strategies for worrying less each day and reducing fear in your life. Although it is not specifically written about mental illness, it can be helpful for those who struggle with anxiety or bipolar disorder.
One of the key takeaways from the book is the concept of living in a “day-tight compartment.” This means focusing on the present moment and not worrying about the past or future. By doing so, individuals can reduce their anxiety and stress levels.
The book is written in a way that is easy to understand and relatable. It has helped many people, including those with mental illness, gain perspective on their worries and fears. However, it should be noted that the book is not a cure for mental illness and should be used in conjunction with professional treatment.
For more book recommendations on mental illness, the community has recommended “15 Books That Have Helped People Through Anxiety,” “20 Books That Have Helped People Through Depression,” and “What to Read: Books About Bipolar Disorder, Mental Health, and Other Fun Topics.”
12. “Prozac Nation” by Elizabeth Wurtzel
“Prozac Nation” is a bestselling memoir that delves into the experience of living with depression. The book has resonated with readers who have struggled with mental illness. It has been described as a source of comfort and guidance for those who have felt lost or alone in their struggles.
The author, Elizabeth Wurtzel, shares her personal journey with depression and the impact it had on her life. Her raw and honest account offers insight into the complexities of mental illness and the challenges of seeking help.
13. “Marbles: Mania, Depression, Michelangelo, and Me” by Ellen Forney
Ellen Forney’s “Marbles: Mania, Depression, Michelangelo, and Me” is a graphic novel memoir that explores her experiences as an artist with bipolar disorder. Through a combination of black-and-white illustrations and prose, Forney shares her journey of diagnosis and learning to manage her illness.
Readers have praised Forney’s ability to convey the complexities of bipolar disorder through her art and writing. Many have found comfort in her relatable descriptions of the frustrations and challenges of living with mental illness.
Forney has also written another graphic novel titled “Rock Steady,” which serves as a guide for individuals navigating a bipolar diagnosis and learning to prioritize their mental health.
Overall, Forney’s work offers a unique and insightful perspective on mental health, and has resonated with many readers who have found solace in her words and art.
14. “Northern Lights” (or “The Golden Compass”) by Phillip Pullman
“Northern Lights” is the first book in the “His Dark Materials” trilogy by Phillip Pullman, which is known as “The Golden Compass” in North America. The story follows a young orphan and her animal spirit, called a “daemon,” on a journey to find her missing friend and uncle in the Arctic.
The book is a children’s fantasy that has been praised for its ability to teach readers about harnessing their unique qualities for good, even in a world that may try to suppress them. Sophie P. recommends “Northern Lights” as a book that had a profound impact on her from a young age.
15. “Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein
Silverstein’s collection of imaginative poems, “Where the Sidewalk Ends,” may not be directly related to mental illness, but it still offers honest truths and valuable life lessons. Readers of all ages can connect with the emotions conveyed in Silverstein’s poetry. Maria A. notes that there are few emotions that cannot be related to a Silverstein poem.
16. “Perfect Chaos” by Cinda Johnson and Linea Johnson
“Perfect Chaos” is a memoir that provides an insightful look into bipolar disorder from the perspectives of a mother and daughter. Linea, the daughter, shares her experiences of living with bipolar disorder, while her mother, Cinda, reflects on her daughter’s struggles and progress.
The book offers a raw and honest account of the challenges faced by individuals with bipolar disorder and their families. Readers have praised the book for its relatability and for giving them a better understanding of the disorder. Overall, “Perfect Chaos” is a powerful and informative read for anyone seeking to learn more about bipolar disorder.
Summary
Bipolar disorder books are an important resource for individuals and families affected by the condition. These books provide valuable information on the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for bipolar disorder.
They can also offer personal accounts of individuals living with the condition, providing insight and understanding into the challenges they face. Some popular titles include “An Unquiet Mind” by Kay Redfield Jamison and “The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide” by David J. Miklowitz. Reading these books can help individuals gain a better understanding of bipolar disorder and improve their ability to manage the condition.