New guidebook on how to manage bipolar symptoms

AuthorHouseNov 17 2009

Many Americans suffer from bipolar disorder and their treatment often includes myriad medications. But what if there is another way to cope with the illness that comes from within? In his revolutionary new guidebook, "Living Out of Darkness: A personal journey of embracing the bipolar opportunity" (published by AuthorHouse), George Denslow -- who was diagnosed bipolar at age 17 -- presents a comprehensive, in-depth look at how to manage bipolar symptoms using a technique he calls "unmedicated spiritual engagement."

Denslow is quick to point out that he is not a psychologist, psychiatrist or psychotherapist, and "Living Out of Darkness" "is not a clinical dissertation on how to treat bipolar," he writes. "It is a true, practical, written on the ground, map of what [I] have discovered living in the terrain [myself]."

Divided into four parts, "Part 1: What is Bipolar" begins with a brief explanation of the traditional definition of bipolar disorder and then introduces Denslow's own alternative definition: that the manic phase is visionary and the depressive cycle is an empathy phase. "Part 2: A Holistic Approach" gives an overview of holistic and preventative body, mind and spirit techniques practiced by the author himself with positive results.

"Part 3: A Guided Tour (Up, Down, and Back to Normal)" presents a road map of the inner and outer terrain of bipolar swings and how they may be consciously navigated. Bipolar readers will benefit from Denslow's experiential knowledge of the different types and speeds of "ups" and "downs" they may encounter, as well as suggestions for how they might facilitate their return to balance. Loved ones and therapists will be grateful for the insight into how their bipolar family member, friend, or client feels life.

Finally, "Part 4: The Symbiotic Opportunity" shares the gifts of being bipolar and describes the opportunity it presents for all who are lucky enough to be bipolar or to know someone who is. "Being bipolar," Denslow explains, "is an opportunity to practice every day the way we can serve others in the same capacity we have to serve ourselves. We lead people to a better life, through being an example of continual discovery and overcoming our inner swings. We provide nurturing comfort and guidance because we know firsthand the need for it. .... Compassion is the gem of living with our mental opportunities. The better we are at taking care of ourselves through highs and lows, the deeper we can feel connected with people that experience any size of bump or vision in the road."

Full of real-life insight and common-sense guidance, "Living Out of Darkness" is a must read for anyone with bipolar symptoms, friends and family of those diagnosed, and therapists and professionals treating the illness. For more information, please visit http://www.livingoutofdarkness.com.