Mike McDonnell
Mental Health

Best Bipolar Disorder Books for Daily Management in 2026

By Mike McDonnell2 min read
Lady reading books on bipolar

Living with bipolar disorder means riding the waves of mania, depression, and everything in between. As I’ve shared in posts like “Life Inside My Bipolar Mind,” finding stability comes from understanding triggers, building solid routines, and learning from others who’ve been there. These are the best bipolar disorder books in 2026 that have helped me manage symptoms day-to-day and given hope to many readers navigating the same challenges.

If you’re also interested in resources for psychosis (which often overlaps with bipolar experiences), check out my related post on the (https://mikemcdonnell.co.uk/best-psychosis-books/ "The Best Books on Psychosis for Understanding and Recovery in 2026") – it includes my personal story and top recommendations.

1. The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide by David J. Miklowitz

This is my absolute go-to—practical strategies for spotting early warning signs, preventing relapses, and creating a personal wellness plan. It’s evidence-based and empowering.

m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71VMJXhmnsL.jpg_BO30,255,255,255_UF900,850_SR1910,1000,0,C_QL100_.jpg

(https://amzn.to/4qVoz19 "View on Amazon - The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide: What You and Your Family Need") …

2. Loving Someone with Bipolar Disorder by Julie A. Fast and John D. Preston

Perfect for partners and families; it helped me explain my episodes to loved ones and build better communication.

m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81YDYdYaInL.jpg_BO30,255,255,255_UF900,850_SR1910,1000,0,C_QL100_.jpg

(https://amzn.to/3Nr71v2 "View on Amazon - Loving Someone with Bipolar Disorder: Understanding and Helping ...")

3. Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for Patients and Families by Francis Mark Mondimore

Comprehensive yet compassionate—covers medication, therapy, and lifestyle accessibly

m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Fs+feKn2L.jpg_BO30,255,255,255_UF900,850_SR1910,1000,0,C_QL100_.jpg

(https://amzn.to/3YUfGZr "Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for Patients and Families (2nd Edition ...")

4. Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder by Julie A. Fast

A step-by-step plan for nutrition, sleep, and mood management that I’ve used myself.

m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71BBTGWFE9L.jpg_BO30,255,255,255_UF900,850_SR1910,1000,0,C_QL100_.jpg

(https://amzn.to/4plqHOo "View on Amazon - Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder: A 4-Step Plan for You and Your ...")

5. An Unquiet Mind by Kay Redfield Jamison

A classic memoir from a psychologist living with bipolar—raw, inspiring, and a reminder that a fulfilling life is possible.

m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51W9qy4X0NL.jpg_BO30,255,255,255_UF900,850_SR1910,1000,0,C_QL100_.jpg

(https://amzn.to/4q5HEh5 "An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness: Jamison, Kay ...")

These top bipolar books turned knowledge into real tools for my stability and recovery. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing long-term, they offer hope and actionable advice. Affiliate links support the blog at no extra cost to you—thank you for reading!

Mike McDonnell

Mike McDonnell

Entrepreneur, author, and mental health advocate based in Chelmsford, Essex. I write about building businesses while managing bipolar disorder.

Read my book

Psychosis: How I Escaped My Mind's Darkest Reality — available on Amazon.

Get the Book

You might also like

Mental Health

Can Psychosis be cured?

Psychosis is a complex mental health condition characterised by a disconnection from reality, often manifesting through hallucinations, delusions, and disorgani

Read →