New Hope is a well-written text on the diagnosis and management
of Bipolar Disorder. It has 12 chapters in total in an easy to
read format, which covers a wide range of topics. It is the collaborative
work of a psychiatrist, Dr. Fawcett , psychologist, Dr. Golden
and bipolar survivor Nancy Rosenfield providing a combination
of solid medical information as well as a plethora of useful practical
tips. Geared toward the sufferer themselves, family members, partners
or anyone who has contact with the disorder.

At the beginning of chapter one the question is posed "Is
it possible to turn suffering into genuine human achievement?"
It is promised that "You will discover that it’s possible
to transform a serious loss or human infliction, such as receiving
a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, into a positive and meaningful
life experience by understanding and mastering the principles
of a positive mental attitude". Tall order for a difficult and sometimes recurrent illness? The format and contents of
the book go a long way towards suggesting that it may be possible.

We are introduced to various high profile individuals who have
suffered from the disorder. Through the stories of e.g. Judge
Sol Wachtler, Mike Wallace and Walter Cronkite ( both news reporters)
and Nancy Rosenfield herself, we hear how others learnt how to
cope with their illnesses, specific symptoms, personal concerns
and reactions to being diagnosed with this illness. This is surely
the book’s primary strength -aiming to reduce the immense stigma
surrounding bipolar disorder. Specifically, time is spent highlighting
the enhanced creative aspects that sometimes accompany a more
manic state. (along with how mania may trigger other people’s
fears about being more uninhibited and spontaneous).There may
be some danger that a stereotype of creativity emanating from
destructive urge could be perpetuated rather than a recovered
individual having access in new ways to their creativity.

The next section covers the diagnosis and background biology of
Bipolar Disorder, including medication. I was impressed by the
frank discussion of all areas in this section–there is even a
1999 positive preliminary report of a study investigating omega
3 fatty acids.

Psychotherapy is covered briefly, the cognitive therapy type,
followed by a chapter on the prevention of suicide. Here we are
introduced to a summary of the many well know facts concerning
suicide risk and prevention. Abraham Lincoln is then called upon
as a historical figure who suffered severe depressions but made
his distress known to his friends and accepted their help. Self-help
is also emphasized in the following chapters.

In summary, while I agree with their basic premise — that hope
must be found — I was left wondering just how much an affected
reader could follow and how inspired would he or she really be.

© 2001 Prem Dana Takada