Personal Memoirs: Bipolar
*An Unquiet Mind†
Kay Redfield Jamison
This is the classic autobiography of bipolar disorder written by a professor of psychiatry who is herself bipolar. With breathtaking honesty Jamison tells of her own manic depression, the bitter costs of her illness, and its paradoxical benefits. This is one of the best scientific autobiographies ever written, a combination of clarity, truth, and insight into human character.
A Brilliant Madness: Living With Manic-Depressive Illness
Patty Duke
Duke tells the story of her manic-depressive illness and its successful treatment, while in alternating chapters science writer Hochman explains the facts of the disease and the methods of treatment available at the time. Duke shows bravery in telling her story in all its humiliating flagrance. Well written and easy to read.
The Years of Silence are Past: My Father's Life with Bipolar Disorder
Stephen P. Hinshaw
A powerful account of what it is to be the son of a man who lost not only his way, but his mind as well. Professor Hinshaw has written a compelling book about fathers and sons, madness, and the intolerance of society and the academic and medical communities.
Detour: My Bipolar Road Trip in 4-D†
Lizzie Simon
Simon writes of her life with bipolar disorder. She put aside her career in order to travel around the country interviewing other people afflicted with bipolar disorder.
The Naked Bird Watcher
Suzy Johnston
"This is a personal, poignant and poetic story of Recovery. Suzy
teaches us about determination, patience and perseverance. She inspires people to continue living their lives while learning to manage a mental illness."
Christine Gayler, Boston University
Neural Misfire: A True Story of Manic-Depression
Jeff D. Kazmierczak
This book is written in the unusual format of a novel based on a true story. It gives a continuous story, which describes the protagonist's path from the early symptoms of depression, to mania, and finally his initial treatment.
Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life
James T. Stout
Reverend Stout's battle with bipolar disorder. Other memoirs are more comprehensive or better written. Stout's book, however, will be helpful to Christians confronting mental illness directly or indirectly.
Journey Not Chosen...Destination Not Known: Living With Bipolar Disorder
Mary Worthen
A fairly enjoyable, quick read about battling bipolar disorder. The quality of writing is good and the story inspires empathy in the reader though it may have a little too much of God in it for those lacking a religious faith.
Win The Battle, The 3-Step Lifesaving Formula to Conquer Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Bob Olson
Based on the author's personal recovery experience, this book provides hope for patients who want to end months or years of suffering by following the right path.