This isn't really a book that you read cover-to-cover. It's a good book for somebody who has just been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, but I was mainly using it for the charts with it. The charts are actually very helpful if you are going to be keeping a mood journal.

This book is definitely suited for those who have just gotten a diagnosis for Bipolar or who are totally unsure how to document their moods, foods, exercise, meds, etc. It is great for anyone who is really just starting out on their Bipolar journey or those who have yet to get a handle on their diagnosis. It has charts to copy and use and ways to document by asking you questions to answer so you can understand triggers, etc. Ruth C. White has another book on Bipolar I love pertaining to preventing relapse which really helped me and so I thought I would check this book out. Unfortunately it wasn't for me. That said, I highly suggest checking out her books as she herself has Bipolar and a very good understanding of this mental illness.

A good primer, along the same lines as [b:Living with Bipolar: A Guide to Understanding and Managing the Disorder|4866557|Living with Bipolar A Guide to Understanding and Managing the Disorder|Lesley Berk|http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41W1Y%2BQBxNL._SL75_.jpg|4931902]. I think I would have found this especially useful when I was just getting used to the diagnosis--it has careful action plans that help you evaluate your diet, exercise, medication, sleep, etc and work towards healthy levels.