Here, in this place--in your place--to be a "follower" is a sign of strength. Follow then, and learn, for you've nothing to lose except confusion.

Networking

1. The Medicine Program - Can't afford the cost of your medications? Broke? Desperate? Scared? Then please check out this program to see if you are elgible for free drugs and other assistance. This isn't a government program, but it is a US program.
   
   
2. Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Programs - This is an excellent resource for US folks because it offers a list of drugs and the associated program which can offer assistance with the cost of that particular drug. For more information you can also call 1-800-762-4636, and receive a free "Directory of Prescription Drug Patient Assistance Programs".;
   
   
3. Med Help International -- "Med Help, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to helping all who are in need, find qualified medical information and support." - What I like about this site is the emphasis on networking and providing contact persons for various illnesses including, but not exclusive to, bipolar disorder.
   
   
4. Bipolar Facts for Families: Information for coping with this disorder - provided in french, english and spanish.
   
   
5. MEDICATION - THE FOUNDATION OF RECOVERY -- by Edward G. Francell, Jr. - The following speech was given in Alabama at the AMI convention. Ed Francell has schizophrenia and is a consumer, and son of a former NAMI Board member.Interesting read!
   
   
6. Children of Parents With Mental Illness: -- Some valuable information for helping the children of bipolar persons. Children of a manic-depressive are at greater risk of mental illness themselves.
   
   
7. Manic-Depressive Illness: An information book for patients, their families and friends -- Erika Bukkfalvi Hillard, MSW, RSW Royal Columbian Hospital, New Westminster, B.C. Winter 1992 - You simply cannot afford to miss this booklet of incredibly useful information for virtually everyone in the bipolar circle. Extremely Good!!  (So good it's listed in several areas on the site)
   
   
8. Understanding Manic Depression - "When left untreated...bipolar illness can have destructive and costly effects on the lives of those who suffer, their family members, and society." NAMI has compiled a readily understandable roadmap for those who are bipolar and those who must somehow learn to live with them. Highly recommended  (Please be patient as the page loads--it's a bit longish, but it shouldn't take too long)
   
   
9. What To Do If A Friend Has Depression -- This site actually contains a good deal more information than indicated here. The official name of the organisation is Suicide Awareness/Voices of Education (SA/VE) and it's definitely the best site on the net for suicide prevention.
   
   
10. What You Need to Know About Depressive Illness -- This excellent article explains the many attributes of the two major depressive illnesses from both the bipolar and unipolar perspectives--Recommended
    
    
11. Advice For Families of Bipolars -- Some helpful Do's and Don'ts that make it easier for both family members and the bipolar person to live with this disorder.
    
    
12. What About Suicide Prevention In People Who Suffer Manic Depressive Disorder? -- Some good advice for caretakers and some ways to make sure the symptoms of suicide are recognised when evidenced by other family members.
    
    
13. Dealing With a Loved One's Suicide -- Sometimes love isn't enough to prevent self-destruction. Remember you saw this page so should you ever need it (and I pray you won't), you'll know where to look for some reassurance that the world won't stay black forever.
    
    
14. Depression Central - Grief & Bereavement section: -- Again, from Dr. Ivan's wonderful site comes this superb resource addressing suicide and grief. Even if you aren't in need of it now, this section is worth checking out and cries out for a bookmark. Just Go!
    
    
15. Coping Strategies -- From the FDMDA Network in Florida, USA-1995 - some excellent advice for caregivers and for the manic depressive himself.
    
    
16. 10 Things *Never* To Say To A Depressed Person -- Selene knows what it means to experience depression and if you love someone who is in its grip, please heed her advice here.
    
    
17. Mental Illness in the Family - Recognizing the Warning Signs of Mental Illness - Part one of three helpful, down-to-earth information packets on living and coping with a mentally ill family member. Courtesy of the National Mental Health Association.
    
    
18. When Your Parent Has A Mental Illness -- A very fine, short piece that's packed with sound advice.
    
    
19. Siblings: Forgotten Family Members -- by Diane T. Marsh, Ph.D. Dr. Marsh writes with precision and clarity about the difficulties some brothers and sisters face when dealing with each other's mental illness. Highly recommended.
    
    
20. Beacon of Hope - While this site contains some helpful information, I do not agree with much of the information regarding confidentiality, consent and forced treatment. Read with a very jaundiced and critical eye.
    
    
21. Bipolar Disorder Patient/Family Handout--(DMDA-Mood Chart-Compliance)
    
    
22. AMI/FAMI: -- Alliance for the Mentally Ill/Friends and Advocates of the Mentally Ill -- You will find information about research into bipolar illness, APA treatment guidelines, dealing with Social Security issues, and support/advocate information on this site. Though a US-centric resource, it still offers much useful information for bipolar folk and their loved ones.
    
    
23. What Families Need To Know About Depressive Illness -- Some basic information to help family members understand and cope with a loved one's depression.
    
    
24. Mental Illness in the Family - Stigma: Building Awareness And Understanding About Mental Illness - A short, clear explanation of some of the major myths surrounding the mentally ill and ways to counter the stigma.
    
    
25. NAMI: National Alliance For The Mentally Ill -- this US-based organisation provides a number of resources and guides. Information available there speaks across cultures and country origin. Mental illness is an equal opportunity offender--it shows no prejudice for caste, color, or economic status.
    
    
26. Mental Illness and Work - A relatively concise bit of advice for those who are returning, or trying to return, to work with a mental illness. This would also be an excellent read for those who have shied away from employing the mentally ill.