The lifetime risk of developing bipolar II disorder is 5-7%, yet the condition is often poorly detected. Mood elevation states are less extreme than in bipolar I disorder although the depressive episodes are usually severe. When correctly treated, the outcome is positive, but bipolar II is often poorly managed, resulting in a high suicide rate. This is the only academic and clinical management review focusing entirely on bipolar II, scrutinizing history, epidemiology, burden and neurobiology and including an extensive clinical debate by international experts about effective management strategies. New chapters cover comorbidity, over-represented personality styles, illness 'trajectories' and distinguishing bipolar II from personality-based emotional dysregulation states. Evidence for different clinical management options is reviewed in detail, two clinical management models are presented and then debated. This book is essential reading for all health professionals managing mood disorders and informative to patients seeking information about their condition and treatment options.

‘This book not only helps clinicians navigate an uncharted area but also paves the road for further scholarly research of a disease with such a high burden of suffering … This stimulating and insightful book should be on the reading list of every clinician who cares for patients with mood disorders.'

Source: Annals of Clinical Psychiatry

‘How do you write a book about a disorder that is ill defined and little researched? You could just outline the depth of ignorance and point out potentially useful paths but Parker has instead given readers the benefit of experience combined with what evidence is available … if you are looking for a book that gives you the way to understand and treat bipolar II then Dr Parker's regimen may well be what you are looking for.'

Source: Psychological Medicine

'An important and comprehensive volume. I recommend it to trainees in mental health as well as practitioners whose focus is on mood disorders.'

David L. Dunner Source: Journal of Clinical Psychiatry

‘This substantial book on the ‘newcomer' of bipolar II disorder was a pleasure to read and review, not only because the topic required such a definitive work, but also because of the inclusive structure and style … the lucidity of the work makes it suitable for both trainees and experts alike. The interested consumer or carer will also find it beneficial and its language is largely approachable.'

Source: Australian Psychiatry

‘The way most of the chapters are written should make it easy - even for colleagues who are not too familiar with the recent developments in the field of the ‘bipolar spectrum' - to better understand the issues about bipolar II disorder, its treatment, and its management … this book is a helpful resource for clinicians and provides a well-written introduction into bipolar II disorder for researchers from different points of views.'

Source: Journal of Psychosomatic Research

'This book not only fills a void in the literature, it does so in such a clear and concise manner that it is a true pleasure to read. What's more, the debate format results in excellent discussions of the definition and management of bipolar II disorder. As a resident who routinely treats patients with mood disorders, I found this to be an essential addition to my bookshelf.'

Source: Doody's Notes