Responding to the reasons why people often do not recover from mood disorders, this book empowers readers by providing the tools needed to work effectively with doctors and health care providers to negotiate the complex pathway to a full and lasting recovery from depression or bipolar disorder. It explains the three main barriers to recovery-not receiving treatment, incorrect diagnosis, and receiving inadequate treatment-and how to overcome these challenges to ensure successful treatment. A practical book for the layperson, it provides flowcharts and useful forms to help readers determine whether they need help and how best to collaborate with their medical team.