One in four families is afflicted by a mental illness, leaving the afflicted and their families in need of help. Bipolar No More: A Memoir of Hope and Recovery by Albuquerque resident Michelle J. Holtby, shines a much-needed light on mental illness, taking the mystery out of bipolar disorder and answering common and less common questions. Holtby presents at the UNM Bookstore, corner of Central and Cornell NE, on Thursday, Nov. 20 from 3-5 p.m.
Holtby looks at mental illness from a different perspective—that recovery is possible, no matter where anyone is in their diagnosis. Filled with insight, hope, and humor, Bipolar No More shares mental wellness tools available to readers whether they have a diagnosis or not.
Recovery—the word is so broad and it means different things to people. For those dealing with brain disorders, recovery is a process. One does not “get over” a mental illness as if it were the flu. But “getting on” with life is essential. Holtby shares some of her experiences living with bipolar disorder to show ways to maintain wellness and recognize and seize opportunities to define or redefine the recovery process.
Holtby is living proof bipolar disorder is more than an illness—it’s an opportunity to grow. Holtby presents her optimistic view and ways to embrace hope and move toward recovery.
Holtby, a life-long resident of Albuquerque, regularly speaks about living with brain disorders to student and professional groups, faith-based organizations, and psychiatric inpatients and their families.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Posted by scarr at November 12, 2008 01:14 PM