Each year, at least 2.3 million Americans suffer from severe bipolar disorder (manic depression), a brain disorder characterized by intense high and low moods, while an estimated 10–13 million others suffer from its milder forms. In Bipolar Disorder Demystified, author Lana Castle, who has lived the better part of her life with this illness, has turned her personal experience into an eloquent and useful guide to all those who travel down the same path. In clear and honest language, Castle helps readers understand the true nature of bipolar disorder, the factors that complicate its diagnosis, and strategies for coping with the illness. Bipolar Disorder Demystified makes great strides in dispelling the mystery surrounding this illness, helping readers decide if it's time to seek treatment, and providing those with any form of mood disorder the information they need to better manage their lives.
Born in Kansas, I became a Texas transplant in 1973. I never expected to stay so long in Austin, but my roots have grown pretty deep.
I've always loved all types of arts and got my bachelor's degree from Kansas State University in speech and theatre. Playwriting and acting were my favorite things.
After a few years in the real world, I returned to school, this time at the University of Texas. My master's degree is in instructional design -- essentially producing educational materials such as videos and simulation games.
Always drawn to writing, I entered the publishing world through the back door. (I've almost never approached things the "normal" way.)
I worked as a communications director, a tech writer, a desktop publisher, a magazine writer, a columnist and an editor before publishing my first book. My latest books are Finding Your Bipolar Muse (www.bipolarmuse.com) and Bipolar Disorder Demystified (www.bipolar-tightrope.com). I'm happiest when deeply immersed in a writing project.
Since 1984 I've been blessed with a supportive husband and two wonderful stepchildren. I'm also blessed by many friends -- most of whom have a mental illness like me. I'm bipolar, living in recovery and darn proud of that!
