Bipolar disorder (BPD) is a severe mental illness which has a substantial impact on the sufferer, carers, and mental health services. Its impact is similar to that of schizophrenia. However, in contrast to schizophrenia, it has, until recently, been almost entirely neglected by psychological researchers. It is only in the last few years that substantial psychological research programmes in the UK and USA have begun to explore the role of psychosocial factors in the disorder. Yet an understanding of these influences will be essential for those trying to understand how we can treat those suffering from BPD.

This volume is the first to bring together reviews of the exciting developments taking place in this field, with chapters from the leading researchers. It presents a broad overview of the psychological and psychosocial factors involved in bipolar disorder, including chapters, amongst others, on risk factors, early warning signs, and treatment.