It is real. It is a physical illness. It affects millions of Americans.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health:

"Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They are different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time. Bipolar disorder symptoms can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.
Bipolar disorder often develops in a person's late teens or early adult years. At least half of all cases start before age 25."

One of the reasons author Dawn DeAnna Wilson wrote "Saint Jude" was to show those with bipolar disorder that they are not alone. The novel follows a young adult with bipolar disorder through her last year of high school and her first semester of college."

To mark this release, Carraway Bay Press will be posting facts on bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness.

* These facts are not a substitute for medical advice. If you think you or a loved one may have bipolar disorder, please speak with a physician.
(Sorry, our lawyers made us put that last part in.)