Bipolar People: How Those with Bipolar Disorder Live and Cope with Themselves

Masha Pushkina is a cognitive-behavioral psychologist specializing in bipolar spectrum disorders. She is the author of the books "Bipolar Disorder: A Survival Guide" and "The Bipolar Question: An Advanced Guide to BD". She was one of the first in Russia to speak about the problems of "bipolar people" — a witty name that those with this diagnosis came up with themselves. Since 2016, Masha Pushkina has been leading the patient community "Association of 'Bipolar People'", collaborating with public organizations that help people with mental disorders, and writing articles on mental health in popular media. In 2019, she received her psychology diploma and then completed training in cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. Many fear that the diagnosis of "bipolar disorder" will put an end to a fulfilling life. But this is not the case. Life with BD can be prosperous and productive. The key is in the ability to experience mood swings and return to balance. For this, it is important to find a suitable treatment plan, establish a proper daily routine, and also understand and accept one's own peculiarities. This book contains real stories from people with BD who share their personal experiences in searching for balance and the tools that helped them regain control over their own lives. It is a compass for those who want not just to fight the illness, but to build a full and meaningful life. And remember, a diagnosis is not a sentence!