I am so glad that many have found this book to be as useful as I have. I have had the bipolar diagnosis for over 5 years now and the more I read this book the more I realize that I am not insane, I am just bipolar. For the longest time I felt ashamed, broken, not good enough, etc....because of my mental illness. This book has helped me realize that I am who I am and that I can live a normal life as long as I take responsibility in managing my illness. It explained so much of the things I do and why I do them. It gave me hope. I can now see it as no different than a diabetic managing their diabetes. I have certain things I must do daily to manage my illness. That is what it is an illness it does not mean I have to feel less than. It does not mean that I can not function in society, I just have to be an advocate for myself and take responsibility for my care. I am glad I made the decision to share excerpts from the book.