Practical yet profound, simple yet deep, in-the-moment yet timeless, Bipolar in Order provides a view of this condition that does not shy away from its devastating consequences but that does promote acceptance, insight, responsibility, and-ultimately-mastery. Although Wootton does romanticize serious mental illness, he and his collaborators provide the essential message that symptom reduction or elimination is far from the main goal of adaptation and intervention. Sure to challenge traditional thinking, this important book is integrative and wise.
Stephen P. Hinshaw, PhD
Professor and Chair, Department of Psychology, UC Berkeley
As a person who has experienced the depths of despair associated with mental illness, Tom's premise that our dark times can lead to a greater understandings of ourselves is a welcome message. Healing and recovery become possible when a person is surrounded by a support network. The second half of Bipolar In Order is visionary as persons from different disciplines share the ideal of an integrated approach to support persons who journey with a mental illness. The reality is that it is already difficult to achieve health care parity for persons living with mental health issues much less put together an extensive support team. Tom's book sets forth the model that we should all be working for.
Susan Gregg-Schroeder
Coordinator of Mental Health Ministries
With increasing frequency mental health professionals are acknowledging the positive benefits of mildly manic states, such as energy, drive and creativity, but Wootton takes that trend further than few shrinks would dare, declaring bipolar is not a disorder at all, in essence proclaiming for himself and his fellow bipolars: we are here and we are not a mistake. He offers a comprehensive program for bipolars to find their own type of balance--to be themselves and in control at the same time.
John D. Gartner, PhD
The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot) of Success in America
Tom Wootton knows that people with bipolar disorder can turn what they perceive as "negatives" into strengths and lead meaningful, productive lives. His philosophy focuses on success, rather than anticipation of failure. He has lived it in his personal and professional life, and he cares deeply about those who hear his message. This is an inspiring book that offers practical tools for living life to its fullest.
Liz T. Smith, Director
NAMI Center for Leadership Development
I admire your courage, and the way in which you are using your own experience of bipolarity to try to help others. Indeed, the main message -- which comes across very clearly -- is definitely needed: Bipolar disorder is not something to be ashamed of; it is not a "life sentence"; and with proper attention, it need not even be regarded as a disease.
Jim Phelps, MD
Why Am I Still Depressed? Recognizing and Managing the Ups and Downs of Bipolar II and Soft Bipolar Disorder
Tom Wootton has written an unusual book growing out of his own manic depressive illness. He explores the positive value of mania and depression, linking it to Eastern traditions of mental discipline, while at the same time appreciating the need for warranted medical diagnosis and treatment. He also describes a team approach oriented towards recovery rather than remission. While complex, and not one size fits all, his approach may help many better understand, treat, and appreciate this condition.
S. Nassir Ghaemi MD MPH
Professor of Psychiatry, Director, Mood DisordersProgram, Tufts Medical Center
I found Tom Wootton's Bipolar In Order a unique perspective on bipolar disorder, something the author himself has. If you or a loved one lives with bipolar disorder, the book is worth taking a look at for a very different and much-needed perspective on this disorder.
John M. Grohol, PSY.D.
CEO & Founder - Psych Central
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