My Mother's BiPolar, So What Am I?

by Angela C. Grett CBP

When the author's mother was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, the response was shock and confusion. What did it mean to be bipolar? How would it affect her mother and the members of her family? Grett became frustrated with her mother because she didn't understand the disease or her mother's behavior and believed that she could be normal if she just tried harder. The diagnosis of bipolar disorder weighs heavily on those millions of Americans who suffer the illness. But what about their families? More specifically, what about the children whose parents are diagnosed. My Mother's Bipolar, So What Am I? reveals the emotional, physical and mental toll this complicated disease takes on the children. Author Angela Grett sheds light on their common experiences, as well as coping mechanisms, to help adult children begin to heal through understanding and perhaps find a reason to be hopeful.

160 pages, Paperback

First published March 7, 2006

Reviews

[Cara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very helpful in my learning journey. I applaud the author’s bravery.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very informative book for adult children raised by a bipolar parent. Help for dealing with the aftermath and finding resources and support.

TV and movie media has misrepresented what a bipolar person is really like. This "monster" they have created is not the typical behavior of a person with bipolar-especially if the person is taking their medication. After reading Grett's book, you will feel much better about admitting that you are bipolar or have a bipolar family member. You will also have up-to-date information about bipolar research and practical help for family members who deal with a bipolar loved one. Angela's book shows understanding and compassion as she reveals her own story about her mother. Be sure to visit Angela's website at www.childrenofbipolar.com

[Tatjana · Rating 1 out of 5]

This author needed to clear her mom's illness off her chest and tell her story. The book had a number of stories, but mostly Ms. Grett's. I have a lingering suspicion of stories from a 4 year old told with precise detail when that person is in their 40s. Additionally, the book is written in a large font peppered with exclamation points and a soft, pop-psych vocabulary that makes be want to vomit.

There are books much more suited to the person who wants meatier knowledge. There are books out there that provide substance and meaning, while being suitably edited for grammar and punctuation. I recommend Daughters of Madness and When Madness Comes Home. I'm reading them at the same time, and this skinny book made zero impact next to these well-researched books.

[Heather]

this sounds very appropriate for me!?