Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life [Paperback]

James T. Stout (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Having survived a sexually and emotionally abusive childhood, Stout became a successful Presbyterian minister, athlete, husband, and father until bipolar disorder led him to a suicide attempt and hospitalization. Here, he describes his long and ongoing struggle with the disease, complicated by problems encountered by many patients battles with insurance companies, the adverse side effects of drugs, and uncomprehending acquaintances. Other titles, notably E. Fuller Torrey's Surviving Manic Depression, are more comprehensive in their discussion of the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of bipolar disorder, and Kaye Redfield Jamison's memoir, An Unquiet Mind, is better written. Stout's book, however, will be helpful to Christians confronting mental illness directly or indirectly. He includes specific recommendations for congregations interested in serving the mentally ill. For church and seminary libraries as well as public libraries serving Christian populations. Mary Ann Hughes, Neill P.L., Pullman, WA
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

From the Publisher

2003 BAIPA Book Award Winner for "Best Psychology/Self-Help Book"

Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Cypress House; 1st edition (May 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1879384442
• ISBN-13: 978-1879384446
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,069,038 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Personal view of bipolar from a sufferer, February 1, 2003

By 

Harold McFarland (Florida) - See all my reviews
(HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)    (VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life (Paperback)

"Bipolar Disorder" is not a book of technical diagnosis and treatment techniques for the disorder. Quite different from similar books on the subject it is the personal story of the life and experiences of the author. Rev. James T. Stout opens up his heart and his life to public scrutiny in order to provide a thorough picture of the thinking patterns and problems of people with bipolar disorder. And yet, as he goes through his various experiences, interlaid within the story itself is the story of how rebuilt his life, the strategies that worked, the techniques that benefited his life, and how he has become more in control of his moods. It is a story of hope and practical guidance for those dealing with bipolar disorder or those who know someone with the disorder. The author masterfully leads the reader through learning to rebuild their life without resorting to jargon or a cold, sterile treatise on the disorder. Intensely personal, highly educational, it is a highly recommended read for anyone wanting to know more about bipolar disorder for whatever their reason.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A rare balanced look at living with Bipolar Disorder, December 27, 2005

By 

Robert C. Stone "TruthAboutHealth.com" - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life (Paperback)

Stout provides a very rare take on bipolar disorder. It is from the perspective of one who has been there (is there) and has more than survived. As a psychiatrist, I have rarely encountered a 'personal experience' volume with such bredth and balance. Yes, he includes religion... he's a minister! But he identifies scores of important aspects to 'rebuilding your life' with bipolar disorder. He doesn't shun medicine as some organized evil attempt at behavioral control. He doesn't say God will heal you without any work on your part. Basically he details all the areas of your life, which if taken for granted (like sleep) can lead to symptomatic relapse.

The title of Chapter 14, "Life in a Psychiatric Unit: Sometimes Awful, Sometimes Fun" fairly well says it all. (And it describes working in a psych unit too!)

Stout has maintained a sense of humor, balance and optimism which would be well adopted by anyone facing a mental health challenge. He has no hidden agendas and never preaches. He tells it like he has experienced it, and as it has worked for him. And he tells it well.

Heartily recommended to all.

14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant!, June 4, 2003

By 

Tim Pheil (Selah, Wa USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Bipolar Disorder: Rebuilding Your Life (Paperback)

Precise, Great Advise. A true Bipolar Recovery book. I have never seen a self help book I couldn't put down. A great book for all those who suffer from Bipolar. Especially those who were victims of abuse. Speaks to those in commons language. Doesn't preach. Speaks of the importance of medication. A must own.