The content of this book is aimed at those suffering from bipolar disorder, as well as their loved ones and helping professionals. Written by a bipolar sufferer, co-author Bryan L. Court, typical questions heard in bipolar support groups are provided, and each is given an in-depth answer. Court's development of answers was aided by a psychiatrist, labour law attorney, hospital worker and relevant literature. Chapters cover facts about the illness, relationship with the doctor, medications, other treatments, support groups, acceptance, family and friends, employment, disability and...

Looking at schizophrenia from the point of view of individuals actually suffering from the disease, this text gives a first-hand insight into the process and effects of the disease. Throughout the narratives, poetry and artwork, Kaplan and Harrow add comments illuminating the meaning and pyschological significance of the stories.

Intentional self-harm, often in the form of cutting one's self, is generally associated with emotional or mental distress, especially when observed among teens. When in pain, the human body releases calming endorphins, leading some to injure themselves to experience the endorphin euphoria. Self-harm is associated with mental health disorders such as borderline personality disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. And while those who engage in self-harm may not intend themselves any serious physical injury, such risky behavior can result in death. "Cutting and Self-Harm" discusses the...

When an individual suffers from an impulse control disorder, that person has little or no control over repeated impulsive acts, causing problems for him or her. Impulse control disorders include pathological gambling, pyromania, kleptomania, intermittent explosive disorder, and trichotillomania, or hair-pulling disorder. People with these disorders usually know their behavior is wrong or strange, but they cannot refrain from such behavior. Though each of these troubling disorders can be psychologically disabling, treatment can be usually helpful to sufferers. "Impulse Control Disorders"...

Sleep is as important to the human body as food and water. Recent research suggests that those who get less than the recommended eight hours a night are more likely to become sick and die sooner than their well-rested counterparts. Though there is much about sleep that remains a mystery to scientists, there is mounting evidence of health risks as more and more Americans cut back on needed rest and bad sleep habits are being passed on to children. "Sleep Disorders" is a concise guide to sleep and sheds helpful light on how it functions and how it can be disrupted. Coverage includes sleep...

Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, difficulty with communication, repetitive behaviors, and narrow, obsessive interests. This book examines the nature of the disorder, its symptoms, the various types, related disorders, and treatments that may help those affected.

Tourette syndrome is a disorder of the nervous system that involves involuntary vocal and motor tics - sudden, rapid, repeated sounds and movements. This book explores the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatment of this bizarre and misunderstood neurological condition, which is often referred to as a 'tic' disorder.

Includes bibliographical references and index.