A Case Series Evaluation of a Brief, Psycho-Education Approach Intended for the Prevention of Relapse in Bipolar Disorder

Abstract

The development of a brief psychological intervention aimed at clinicians without high levels of bipolar disorder expertise was described, and the manual based therapy was evaluated for feasibility with 13 bipolar diagnosed clients. Outcome was assessed using inventories related to central concerns with the bipolar population including suicide risk (Beck Hopelessness Scale), perceived control over mood and other internal states (Perceived Control of Internal States Scale) and satisfaction with treatment (Client Satisfaction Questionnaire). Data from Visual Analogue Scales and research interviews were used to complement the main results. Significant improvements were observed on all measures and it is concluded that the evaluated treatment can have important effects on central aspects of the bipolar experience and that it can be a useful adjunct to pharmacological therapies. Implications for clinical practice and service provision are discussed.