Help for LGBTQ People Facing Bipolar Disorder

The LGBTQ community faces higher rates of mood disorders, but there may be new help recognizing and treating bipolar.

In his new Book, Owning Bipolar Disorder (Citadel Press, $16.00), Michael Pipich, MS LMFT, deconstructs the stigma around Bipolar Disorder and rewrites the diagnosis into an understandable guide to how patients and families can effectively diagnosis, treat, and thrive with a newfound confidence in their mental health.

A typical mental health patient will often neglect or refuse seeking the appropriate professional care for nearly 10 years, fearing the stigma and fear with which mental disorders are perceived in the public eye. However, Pipich notes that several well-known and successful people with bipolar disorder have gone on to live successful and happier lives in harnessing their mental health, and that — far from being rare — up to 5% of the U.S. population may be living with bipolar disorder!

In Owning Bipolar Disorder, Pipich offers a three-step approach to treating bipolar that takes an intimate and non-traditional route. His plan for “re-stabilization and recognition” focuses around fronting the triggers and after-effects of bipolar in daily life, such as depression, loss of energy, or anxiety. “Stabilization and action” works towards effective medication and self-acceptance of one’s own diagnosis. “The final step” takes a look at long-term recovery, taking control of one’s new sense of self-identity, and moving on into a successful and healthy lifestyle that is uniquely one’s own.

Michael Pipich, MS, LMFT holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical/Community Psychology from California State University and a Bachelor of Science Degree Psychology from Loyola Marymount University. He has had firsthand experience in the field as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has treated several patients with a variety of disorders from a diverse set of backgrounds. Pipich’s book illustrates his deep understanding of the nature of bipolar and focuses on getting his readers on the track to treatment and keeping them along paths of positive mental health and stabilization.

You can visit Pipich’s website for more information on how to effectively treat bipolar disorder, reclaim one’s mental health and live a happier life.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder, check out our guide to “finding a great LGBTQ friendly therapist or counselor in NYC.”