Bipolar Disorder: A Web of Information, Treatment, and Support

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance has a “Wellness Toolbox” with a “Trigger Tracker,” a “‘Staying healthy at work’ worksheet,” “Wellness strategies,” and more. Click on “Empower Yourself” on the left side of the page to find the toolbox. Find more information by visiting the “Just Diagnosed?” button along the top of the page. The alliance also has a section in which you can become an advocate at a local, state, or federal level, under the “Get Involved” link on the homepage. Stay informed by registering for the organization’s free newsletters.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has a “Living With Bipolar Disorder” community that includes interviews and a discussion group, as well as a PDF guide, “Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Recovery.” 

MSN has a Health & Fitness site with a section on bipolar disorder that features interesting articles about living with the condition. Look for topics like “Managing a Manic Episode” and “Holding Down a Job—With Bipolar” in an advice column format.

The BBC has an overview of bipolar disorder that includes resources for those located in the United Kingdom. The “Self-management” section offers information helpful to everyone with the disorder.

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance published a booklet called “The Storm in my Brain” to help children understand what bipolar disorder is and how it affects them. The booklet is illustrated by children who have bipolar disorder or depression, and it has tips for parents and teachers at the end. Note: the file is very large (1.31 MB).

NAMI was mentioned above for its resources for people with bipolar disorder. The association also sponsors a free 12-week course to help families cope with someone who is mentally ill. Topics covered include strategies for handling crises and for helping loved ones take their medication regularly. Search the course schedule by state.

The Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation has printable brochures, such as “Educating the Child with Bipolar Disorder.”

MSN Health & Fitness has a section on bipolar disorder in teens and children ithat ncludes links to articles such as “What Happens,” “What Increases Your Risk,” and “When To Call a Doctor.”

Psych Central has a page full of articles on bipolar disorder, such as “Building on the Strengths of a Bipolar Child” and “Emerging Bipolar Therapies.”

The Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation has a long article discussing the educational issues for a child with bipolar disorder. Topics include preparing for an individual education plan meeting; considering options like therapeutic day schools and residential treatment centers; and making the decision to home-school.