Surviving Manic Depression: A Manual on Bipolar Disorder for Patients, Families and Providers is a non-fiction book by E. Fuller Torrey, M.D. and Michael B. Knable, M.D..
The book starts out with a very scientific and historical look at manic depression aka bipolar disorder. A reader looking for useful ways to deal with this disorder will get lost in all the technical details that are thrown out in the beginning.
Then the book gets useful. The description of drugs, their side effect, and interactions with foods and other medications are helpful. It provides a moderate view on side effects, more balanced than Your Drug May Be Your Problem.
The book continues one to detail various treatment approaches and their benefits and draw backs to each. Tips on how to manage the illness and life are given in a helpful straightforward manner. Effects on family and work relations are discussed along with advocacy for patients.
The appendix offers a wealth of current information and resources from books to websites.
written on July 14, 2004; modified on July 14, 2004.