Mind Race: A First-Hand Account of One Teenager's Experience with Bipolar Disorder(Adolescent Mental Health Initiative)

New to the "Adolescent Mental Health Initiative" series are books written specifically for teens and adolescents. Each book addresses some of the major mental health issues facing young people today: depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. They will be written for and by young people who have struggled with and conquered these illnesses themselves. Supplementing this first-person narrative with the scholarship and expertise of leading psychiatrists and psychologists, the authors will provide such essential information as how to go about getting a diagnosis, what the latest treatment options are, and how to cope with mental illness at home and at school. Using this unique combination of personal narrative and cutting-edge research, these books are designed to help teens and young adults deal effectively with these illnesses and to empower them and their families to act immediately and wisely at getting the best available treatment possible. The life of a person with bipolar disorder can be tumultuous. The world is made up of many moods: one is fast-paced, frantic, energetic - you are at the top of your game and feeling invincible. Another is so bleak and dark that basic tasks are nearly impossible - your body no longer abeys simple commands and your interest in the world around you dissolves. Now imagine a third mood: the sudden and volatile mixed state in which both the highs and lows occur simultaneously. Many of those diagnosed with this disorder are adolescents: young people who often feel isolated, afraid, and unsure of who to talk to or where to turn for help and answers. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 15, Patrick Jamieson knows firsthand the highs and lows and bring his experiences to bear in "Mind Race", the first in the "Annenberg Mental Health Initiative" series written specifically for teenagers and young adults. This is a first-person account, aimed at teens who have recently been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, combining Jamieson's personal experience with practical advice for young people. Incorporating the medical expertise of psychiatrist Moira Rynn, the author discusses his own challenges and triumphs and offers guidance on issues such as psychiatric hospitalisation, living with mood-stabilising medications, and "what doctors know" about bipolar disorder. In authoritative yet accessible language, he presents the latest in scientific research on the disorder, treatment options, and how to deal with the disorder at home and at school. Included is a detailed FAQ for the recently diagnosed. With "Mind Race", Jamieson offers hope to teens and young adults living with bipolar disorder, helping them to navigate and overcome their challenges so they can lead a full and rewarding life.

Table of Contents:
1. There and Back: A Bipolar Trip; 2. How It All Began; 3. What Do Doctors Know About Bipolar Disorder and How Do They Know It?; 4. Getting Help; 6. The Illness Is Not Our Enemy; 7. One in Two Million

About the Author :
Patrick Jamieson, Ph.D., is Associate Director of the Adolescent Risk Communication Institute of the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania. He is the series editor of the 12-book Annenberg Mental Health Initiative (AMHI) trade series of books for parents and teens. Moira Rynn, M.D., is Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Medical Director of the Mood and Anxiety Disorder Program and of the Child and Adolescent Research Service (CAReS) at the University of Pennsylvania.

Review :
"Jamieson's brilliant insight into the young bipolar patient is incredible. But more importantly, Mind Race is a must read for both teenagers with the disorder and their families in learning to cope with this illness, because it will save lives."-- Andy Behrman, author of Electroboy: A Memoir of Mania "Patrick Jamieson has written a good, solid primer for young people diagnosed with bipolar disorder and for their families. His book is full of sound, no-frills advice from someone who knows what it means to live with bipolar disorder. Jamieson has used the advice in this book to rescue himself from the perils of bipolar disorder, and made a fulfilling life for himself. I hope my own children will do as well."--Paul Raeburn, author of Acquainted with the Night, a memoir of raising children with depression and bipolar disorder "An incredibly important work, and a road map to hope for young people living with bipolar disorder."--Bev Cobain, author of When Nothing Matters Anymore: A Survival Guide for Depressed Teens "Mind Race is the book Patrick Jamieson "searched for and could not find" when he was 15. Reflecting on his adolescent years, Jamieson renders a gripping, first-hand account of his struggle with bipolar disorder. Mind Race deftly weaves the author's personal narrative with current medical information on diagnosis and treatment. Most importantly, Jamieson demonstrates that the illness can be managed, emphasizing that "the illness is not our identity." Adolescents and young adults facing the challenges of bipolar disorder will draw both inspiration and information from this unique contribution to the growing literature on bipolar disorder."--Kate C. Pravera, Ph.D., Executive Director, Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation