This 15 CE hour course builds upon David Miklowitz's previous book with Michael Goldstein; Bipolar Disorder: A Family-Focused Treatment Approach (Guilford), which won the 1998 Outstanding Research Publication Award from the American Association for Marital and Family Therapy, to present The Bipolar Survival Guide: What You and Your Family Need to Know. This user friendly book offers insight to the clinician, identifying the tools for persons with bipolar disorder to manage their illness. The author builds bridges of understanding between the person with bipolar disorder, their family and their professional support system.

After covering medication and diagnosis of bipolar disorder, the author breaks down self-management into four steps: 1) accepting the diagnosis, 2) becoming an expert on one's moods, 3) educating family and friends, and 4) enlisting support.

As a leading researcher and clinical specialist who knows what works, Dr. Miklowitz supplies proven tools to help your clients achieve balance--and free themselves from the emotional and financial havoc that can result when symptoms go unchecked--without sacrificing the rich and varied emotional experiences of life.

Educational Objectives

• Identify the key characteristics of bipolar disorder
• Understand the difference between bipolar I and bipolar II disorder
• Identify the 4 temperamental disturbances
• Understand the relationship between genetics, biology, stress and bipolar onset
• Identify the two phases of medication treatment
• Identify the most prescribed mood stabilizers
• Understand the predictors of response between lithium and anticonvulsants
• Understand the principles that enable wellness and medical concordance
• Understand the three step strategy of the 'relapse drill' from a systemic perspective
• Identify and understand the strategies to challenge depression

Syllabus / Course Instructions

• The Course consists of reading the selected book, successfully completing an online posttest and filling out a course evaluation.
• The book is not included. It must be purchased separately. We have supplied a link to Amazon.com for your convenience.
• Purchasing your course will give you access to both a printable copy of the test and an online version. Print the test to use as a companion as you read the book and answer the questions.
• You cannot exit the online test once you begin, so have your answers available.