Bipolar Disorder is a dirty, rotten thief - a thief of family serenity and peace of mind, a destroyer of emotional balance for everyone who comes into contact with it, and the catalyst of a lifestyle that frequently produces dire consequences at home, in the workplace, and in society as a whole.

Makes one wonder, doesn't it? How can one bipolar possibly be capable of creating so much chaos so thoroughly and so devastatingly? But for those in the bipolar's circle of influence, the answer is obvious!

This wonderful, new book is designed specifically for the families and friends of these unique individuals. It looks directly -- and lovingly -- at the many ways in which intelligent medical and psychological treatment for the bipolar (and mindful self-care for the rest of us), coupled with open-minded and open-hearted family participation in the treatment program, can bring Bipolar Disorder under control and maintain relatively steady-state emotional balance in both the bipolar and the family -- in an atmosphere of thriving rather than of just surviving.

Debra and Mark Meehl have brought us some very effective tools with which to craft the reconstruction of a family. And they touch all the bases: finding support, handling social, emotional, financial and spiritual needs -- all these and more are covered in a straightforward, helpful and very personal way. It's a book to read, to read again, and to keep for reference through the years ahead.

Mark and Debra Meehl live in Arizona.

Debra divides her time between speaking engagements, writing, and working as a Life Coach.

This is their first book.

The couple is currently working on a companion book to the Survival Guide, The 6 Keys Manual: A 12-Month Guide for Bipolars and Families, which is scheduled for publication in September, 2005.