In Burn's book, he states that genetic factors account for only 16% of
depression. He also quotes research done by others on bibliotherapy,
where patients are asked to read his book, "Feeling Good: The New Mood
Therapy" for 4 weeks (with no meds, no CBT) and do the exercises he
describes in his book. The insight and change in thinking have
affected change in mood for the better.

Although he devotes much of his book to depression, much of it also
applies to bipolar as both of them are mood disorders. All mood
disorders may be improved by transitional constructs (ala George
Kelly) to correct the cognitive dissonance that causes the affective
dysfunction.

Basically, to get well, you must be receptive to changing your beliefs
and way of thinking that have caused you to be ill in the first place.

sincerely

AZLKOH

--- In BAD_MD@..., "ygf_diary" <ygf_diary@y...> wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I wonder if anyone can give advice.
>
> I am being pulled between Phsychiatrist and Psychologist. The
> Psychiatrist had prescribed medication for Cyclothemia (I think I
> am actually Bipolar as I haven't filled them in on everything) but
> the meds are working pretty well in general. The Psychologist,
> who I have seen twice is convinced that my difficulties can be
> helped through therepy only. I am very keen to do CBT because
> my behaviour has been so distructive in the past, I am very
> willing to commit to working hard and learning as much as I can.
>
> However, this doesn't change the fact that I have been told by
> another Dr. that I have a chemical imbalance... and for this CBT
> will only go so far because I cannot control the flow of chemicals
> in my brain. Yes, I can learn about triggers etc. and subdue
> some changes but I came out of the consulting room yesterday
> feeling very angry.
>
> I felt that my family life was being blamed for everything. That
> isn't
> fair, not on my family or me... and it is quite insulting to the
> Psychiatrist's diagnosis (his coleague)... Do these people ever
> work together?
>
> In the NHS, you as the patient are constantly made to feel that if
> you put a foot wrong then you will lose treatment so I am scared
> of standing up to the Psychologist and saying that I want the CBT
> but to not approach it through past troubles. He started talking
> about mood swings... he got it completely wrong.
>
> He is blaming things on my father and I am very angry. My dad is
> etcentric but not a bad person. If I say no to the CBT treatment I
> will never get it again.
>
> Have others experienced this type of problem?
>
> I am not to see my psychiatrist for 3 months. I don't want to keep
> bothering her... none of the Drs ever really listen to me... it is
> like
> being in a dream/nightmare where you are talking about really
> serious things and people don't respond.
>
> I can't afford to go private as I am on benefits.
>
> Thank you.