In readable' down-to-earth prose' A Balanced Life teaches family and friends what they can expect from those they love who have mental health problems. It offers nine clear-cut strategies for implementing a plan to support them' including how to:

- assist a loved one in developing healthy self-esteem.

- accept mental illness as a fact of life.

- identify early warning signs that precede a more difficult phase of the illness.

- create a supportive network of family and friends.

Each strategy is illustrated by inspiring stories of real people who have put the principles into practice' and is followed by key questions that probe readers to ponder their own situations. This is the guide to bringing order to chaos' providing a framework for reactions to the person who has a mental illness. It clarifies expectations and offers advice and encouragement.