In my previous book, Surviving and Thriving with Bipolar Disorder: Tips from a Survivor, I discussed my own coping strategies for dealing with my bipolar disorder. This book is going to concentrate on the other side of the coin: how to take care of someone who's suffering from this illness. I have a unique perspective: because the bipolar gene runs in my family, I know what works and what doesn't. I've been there; done that.

I survived a suicide attempt when I was 30, and I divide my life into the times before my suicide attempt and my times after. My last 30 years have been amazing. I've gone to graduate school and earned a Master's Degree; I had a long career working full-time for the government, and have published and sold many books: a dream come true for this English major. They have been the best years of my life. But I haven't forgotten the depths of my despair. I still have moments of fear and trembling. The difference is: this time I know how to tame the beast. And hopefully, I can help you do the same while taking care of someone who has bipolar disorder.