Boca Raton resident Landon Sessions is an FAU Sociology graduate student and the author of a new book titled “Living Bipolar.” Sessions recently sat down for an "On the Spot" profile to talk about the book, his past experiences living with bipolar disorder and his future as an author who helps others.

Can you tell me about the book “Living Bipolar?”
“I started the book about a year ago. I had to suffer for years
because I didn’t know what was wrong… It’s a combination of my story
and a how-to-manual using five principles. Each story in the book
highlights one of the principles. ‘B’ is for behavior and behavior is
vital because as a bipolar
person I must be aware of how my behavior affects the people in my
life, whether it be family, friends or work.”

Is it a solution-based book? Did you interview people with bipolar disorder?

“It’s a solution-oriented book, a one-stop shop for people with
bipolar disorder. I interviewed parents with bipolar children, four
people living with bipolar and a husband with a bipolar wife.
Education is important; the point of this book is a manual for
parents, family or friends, managing the one they love’s bipolar
disorder.”

When were you first diagnosed with bipolar disorder?

“I had a manic episode in 2000. When I was younger I regulated the
bipolar disorder with drugs and alcohol. I was living in Atlanta at
the time and had to leave there (due to problems with drugs and
alcohol). At age 21 I was diagnosed. I came to Florida Atlantic
University and started a communications degree program. I was put on
medicine for the bipolar disorder, but in order for the medicine to
work I had to quit drugs and alcohol. I’ve been sober for nine years
now.”

Are there any positives about being bipolar?

“The best thing is that people with bipolar take on big tasks. In
writing this book or college work that can be a big positive.”

What’s your goal in life?

“I want to be an author/advocate for people with bipolar.”

When will the book hit the stands?
“Well it’s about 275 pages right now and I’m at the literary agent
phase. I hope to get it out as soon as this process allows me to do
so.”

Visit Landon Sessions blog: at www.landon_livingbipolar.blogspot
For more information on “Living Bipolar” call Landon Sessions at 561-414-9684