Cognitive behaviour therapy and supportive therapy for bipolar disorders: relapse rates for treatment period and 2-year follow-up

Adjuvant Psychotherapies to Prevent Relapse in Bipolar Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Several psychotherapy protocols have been evaluated as adjuncts to pharmacotherapy for patients with bipolar disorder (BD). Little is known about their comparative effectiveness.

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of 2 types of group psychotherapy, skill-oriented, material-based cognitive behavioral therapy (SEKT) and supportive, patient-centered, emotion-focused therapy (FEST), to prevent relapse in patients with euthymic BD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a large, observer-blind, randomized clinical trial conducted over 18 months (posttreatment after 6 months; follow-up at 12 and 18 months). In addition to psychiatric care as usual (including mood-stabilizing medication), each participant at 9 clinical outpatient units in Germany received 24 hours of group psychotherapy over 4, full-day sessions spread over 5 months. Patients with euthymic BD type 1 (BD 1) or BD type 2 (BD 2) between the ages of 18 and 50 years were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 forms of psychotherapy, SEKT or FEST. Independent clinicians blinded to patient grouping performed assessments using structured interviews (Structured Clinical Interview for DSM Disorders and Longitudinal Interval Follow-Up Evaluation) and self-rating and clinician rating for inclusion criteria and outcome. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were calculated for time to relapse. Cox proportional hazards statistics and propensity score matching were calculated for the multivariate analysis. Study data were analyzed from March 2020 to September 2022.

Interventions

SEKT intervention is a structured cognitive behavioral therapy integrating elements of interpersonal social rhythm therapy, and of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. FEST psychotherapy has its roots in emotion-focused, supportive, and nondirective therapy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Recurrence of a new affective episode assessed by blinded interviewer with the LIFE interview. In addition, self-rating and clinician rating of depressive and mania symptoms as well as level of social functioning were assessed.

Results

Of 348 screened referrals, 305 patients (median [IQR] age, 34 [18-50] years; 162 male [53%]) with euthymic BD 1 or BD 2 were included in the study. A total of 207 patients (68%) had BD 1, 98 (32%) had BD 2, and 278 (91%) received psychiatric care. Both therapies were equally effective in preventing recurrence of a new episode. Outcome (higher rate of new episodes) was not predicted by kind of treatment (SEKT: 69 [49%] relapse; FEST: 63 [46%] relapse) but was predicted by BD 2, comorbidity, attending all sessions, and the interaction of type of treatment by BD 1 or 2. Patients with BD 2 had the highest rate of relapse (60 [61%] relapse), in particular, when treated by SEKT (39 [70%] relapse).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this randomized clinical trial revealed that a structured, skill-oriented, material-based cognitive behavioral therapy (SEKT) and a supportive, patient-centered, emotion-focused therapy (FEST) were equally effective in preventing relapse of affective episodes when delivered in a new, intensive group format. Additionally, there were baseline factors, in particular BD 2, that influenced outcomes.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02506322.

EMDR therapy vs. supportive therapy as adjunctive treatment in trauma-exposed bipolar patients: A randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Patients with bipolar disorder (BD) are frequently exposed to traumatic events which worsen disease course, but this study is the first multicentre randomised controlled trial to test the efficacy of a trauma-focused adjunctive psychotherapy in reducing BD affective relapse rates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This multicentre randomised controlled trial included 77 patients with BD and current trauma-related symptoms. Participants were randomised to either 20 sessions of trauma-focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for BD, or 20 sessions of supportive therapy (ST). The primary outcome was relapse rates over 24-months, and secondary outcomes were improvements in affective and trauma symptoms, general functioning, and cognitive impairment, assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 12- and 24-month follow-up. The trial was registered prior to starting enrolment in clinical trials (NCT02634372) and carried out in accordance with CONSORT guidelines.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between treatment conditions in terms of relapse rates either with or without hospitalisation. EMDR was significantly superior to ST at the 12-month follow up in terms of reducing depressive symptoms (p=0.0006, d=0.969), manic symptoms (p=0.027, d=0.513), and improving functioning (p=0.038, d=0.486). There was no significant difference in dropout between treatment arms.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the primary efficacy criterion was not met in the current study, trauma-focused EMDR was superior to ST in reducing of affective symptoms and improvement of functioning, with benefits maintained at six months following the end of treatment. Both EMDR and ST reduced trauma symptoms as compared to baseline, possibly due to a shared benefit of psychotherapy. Importantly, focusing on traumatic events did not increase relapses or dropouts, suggesting psychological trauma can safely be addressed in a BD population using this protocol.

Efficacy of cognitive behavioural therapy for bipolar disorder: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a serious mental illness with a chronic course and significant morbidity and mortality. BD has a lifetime prevalence rate of 1%-1.5% and is characterised by recurrent episodes of mania and depression, or a mixture of both phases. Although it has harmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has shown beneficial effects, but there is not enough clinical information in the current literature.

METHODS

The main aim was to determine the efficacy of CBT alone or as an adjunct to pharmacological treatment for BD. A systematic review of 17 articles was carried out. The inclusion criteria were: quantitative or qualitative research aimed at examining the efficacy of CBT in BD patients with/without medication; publications in English language; and) being 18-65 years of age. The exclusion criteria were: review and meta-analysis articles; articles that included patients with other diagnoses in addition to BD and that did not separate the results based on such diagnoses; and studies with patients who did not meet the DSM or ICD criteria for BD. The PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were searched up to 5 January 2020. The search strategy was: "Bipolar Disorder" AND "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy".

RESULTS

A total of 1531 patients both sexes were included. The weighted mean age was 40.703 years. The number of sessions ranged from 8 to 30, with a total duration of 45-120 min. All the studies show variable results in improving the level of depression and the severity of mania, improving functionality, reducing relapses and recurrences, and reducing anxiety levels and the severity of insomnia.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of CBT alone or adjunctive therapy in BD patients is considered to show promising results after treatment and during follow-up. Benefits include reduced levels of depression and mania, fewer relapses and recurrences, and higher levels of psychosocial functioning. More studies are needed.

Attachment insecurity partially mediates the relationship between childhood trauma and depression severity in bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Childhood trauma is associated with greater depression severity among individuals with bipolar disorder. However, the mechanisms that explain the link between childhood trauma and depression severity in bipolar disorder remain poorly understood. The mediational role of attachment insecurity in childhood and adulthood was assessed in the current study.

METHODS

Participants with bipolar disorder (N = 143) completed measures of childhood trauma (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire), attachment insecurity (Experiences in Close Relationships Scale) and depression severity (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale) as part of the Prechter Longitudinal Study of Bipolar Disorder. A sequential mediation model was tested using path analysis: the direct and indirect effects of childhood trauma on depression severity with attachment insecurity (attachment anxiety and avoidance) in childhood (mother and father) and adulthood (partner) as mediators were estimated.

RESULTS

The final path model demonstrated an excellent fit to the data (comparative fit index = 0.996; root mean square error of approximation = 0.021 [90% confidence interval = 0.000-0.073]). Supporting the hypothesised sequential mediation model, maternal attachment anxiety in childhood and romantic attachment avoidance in adulthood partially mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and depression severity; this effect accounted for 12% of the total effect of childhood trauma on depression severity.

CONCLUSION

Attachment insecurity in childhood and adulthood form part of the complex mechanism informing why people with bipolar disorder who have a history of childhood trauma experience greater depression severity. Addressing attachment insecurity represents a valuable psychotherapeutic treatment target for bipolar disorder.

Perceived criticism and family attitudes as predictors of recurrence in bipolar disorder

Background

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a highly recurrent psychiatric condition. While combined pharmacological and psychosocial treatments improve outcomes, not much is known about potential moderators that could affect these treatments. One potential moderator might be the quality of interpersonal relations in families, for example, familial attitudes and perceived criticism.

Method

To explore this question we conducted a post-hoc analysis that used an existing data set from a previous study by our group that compared cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and supporting therapy (ST) in remitted BD. In the present study, we used Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

We found that the relatives’ ratings of criticism predicted the likelihood of depressive recurrences, especially in the ST condition. The patients’ ratings of negative familial attitudes predicted the risk of recurrences in general, irrespective of the therapy condition.

Conclusion

These results suggest that it might be important to assess perceived criticism and familial attitudes as potential moderators of treatment outcome in BD.

Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Bipolar Disorder: a Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a serious mental illness with a chronic course and significant morbidity and mortality. BD has a lifetime prevalence rate of 1% to 1.5% and is characterised by recurrent episodes of mania and depression, or a mixture of both phases. Although it has harmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has shown beneficial effects, but there is not enough clinical information in the current literature.

METHODS

The main aim was to determine the efficacy of CBT alone or as an adjunct to pharmacological treatment for BD. A systematic review of 17 articles was carried out. The inclusion criteria were: quantitative or qualitative research aimed at examining the efficacy of CBT in BD patients with/without medication; publications in English language; and) being 18-65 years of age. The exclusion criteria were: review and meta-analysis articles; articles that included patients with other diagnoses in addition to BD and that did not separate the results based on such diagnoses; and studies with patients who did not meet the DSM or ICD criteria for BD. The PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were searched up to 5 January 2020. The search strategy was: "Bipolar Disorder" AND "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy".

RESULTS

A total of 1,531 patients both sexes were included. The weighted mean age was 40.703 years. The number of sessions ranged from 8-30, with a total duration of 45-120minutes. All the studies show variable results in improving the level of depression and the severity of mania, improving functionality, reducing relapses and recurrences, and reducing anxiety levels and the severity of insomnia.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of CBT alone or adjunctive therapy in BD patients is considered to show promising results after treatment and during follow-up. Benefits include reduced levels of depression and mania, fewer relapses and recurrences, and higher levels of psychosocial functioning. More studies are needed.

The Management of Prodromal Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder: Available Options and Future Perspectives

The onset of prodromal symptoms in subjects who are at familial or clinical risk for bipolar disorder could be considered as an important alarm bell for the development of the disease and should be carefully detected. The management of prodromes in bipolar high-risk patients appears to be an important means of prevention; nevertheless, at the moment, there aren’t clear and widely shared treatment indications. The aim of this review is to summarize the available treatment options (pharmacological, psychosocial and nutraceutical) for the management of prodromal symptoms in subjects who are at familial or clinical risk for bipolar disorder.

Influence of childhood trauma on the treatment outcomes of pharmacological and/or psychological interventions for adolescents and adults with bipolar disorder: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Despite available pharmacological and psychological treatments, remission rates for bipolar disorder remain relatively low. Current research implicates the experience of childhood trauma as a potential moderator of poor treatment outcomes among individuals with bipolar disorder. To date, the evidence reporting the influence of childhood trauma on the treatment outcomes of pharmacological and/or psychological interventions for adolescents and adults with bipolar disorder has not been systematically reviewed.

METHOD AND ANALYSIS

MEDLINE Complete, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials will be searched to identify randomised and nonrandomised studies of pharmacological and/or psychological interventions for bipolar disorder, which also assessed childhood trauma. To be eligible for inclusion, studies must have been conducted with adolescents or adults (≥10 years). Data will be screened and extracted by two independent reviewers. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. If deemed viable, a meta-analysis will be conducted using a random effects model. Heterogeneity of evidence will be estimated with the I² statistics.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This systematic review will use only previously published data. Therefore, ethical approval is not required. The results will be written in concordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines, published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020201891.

A Smartphone-Based Self-management Intervention for Bipolar Disorder (LiveWell): User-Centered Development Approach

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that results in significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacotherapy is the primary treatment for bipolar disorder; however, adjunctive psychotherapy can help individuals use self-management strategies to improve outcomes. Yet access to this therapy is limited. Smartphones and other technologies have the potential to increase access to therapeutic strategies that enhance self-management while simultaneously providing real-time user feedback and provider alerts to augment care.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes the user-centered development of LiveWell, a smartphone-based self-management intervention for bipolar disorder, to contribute to and support the ongoing improvement and dissemination of technology-based mental health interventions.

METHODS

Individuals with bipolar disorder first participated in a field trial of a simple smartphone app for self-monitoring of behavioral targets. To develop a complete technology-based intervention for bipolar disorder, this field trial was followed by design sessions, usability testing, and a pilot study of a smartphone-based self-management intervention for bipolar disorder. Throughout all phases of development, intervention revisions were made based on user feedback.

RESULTS

The core of the LiveWell intervention consists of a daily self-monitoring tool, the Daily Check-in. This self-monitoring tool underwent multiple revisions during the user-centered development process. Daily Check-in mood and thought rating scales were collapsed into a single wellness rating scale to accommodate user development of personalized scale anchors. These anchors are meant to assist users in identifying early warning signs and symptoms of impending episodes to take action based on personalized plans. When users identified personal anchors for the wellness scale, the anchors most commonly reflected behavioral signs and symptoms (40%), followed by cognitive (25%), mood (15%), physical (10%), and motivational (7%) signs and symptoms. Changes to the Daily Check-in were also made to help users distinguish between getting adequate sleep and keeping a regular routine. At the end of the pilot study, users reported that the Daily Check-in made them more aware of early warning signs and symptoms and how much they were sleeping. Users also reported that they liked personalizing their anchors and plans and felt this process was useful. Users experienced some difficulties with developing, tracking, and achieving target goals. Users also did not consistently follow up with app recommendations to contact providers when Daily Check-in data suggested they needed additional assistance. As a result, the human support roles for the technology were expanded beyond app use support to include support for self-management and clinical care communication. The development of these human support roles was aided by feedback on the technology's usability from the users and the coaches who provided the human support.

CONCLUSIONS

User input guided the development of intervention content, technology, and coaching support for LiveWell. Users valued the provision of monitoring tools and the ability to personalize plans for staying well, supporting the role of monitoring and personalization as important features of digital mental health technologies. Users also valued human support of the technology in the form of a coach, and user difficulties with aspects of self-management and care-provider communication led to an expansion of the coach's support roles. Obtaining feedback from both users and coaches played an important role in the development of both the LiveWell technology and human support. Attention to all stakeholders involved in the use of mental health technologies is essential for optimizing intervention development.

A qualitative exploration of how people with bipolar disorder consider risk-taking in everyday decisions

BACKGROUND

Difficulties with decision making and risk taking in individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) have been associated with mood episodes. However, there is limited information about these experiences during euthymia, the mood state where people with BD spent the majority of their time.

AIMS

To examine how individuals with BD consider risk in everyday decisions during their euthymic phase.

METHOD

We conducted a qualitative study that used semi-structured audio recorded interviews. Eight euthymic participants with confirmed BD were interviewed, and we used interpretative phenomenological analysis to analyse the data.

RESULTS

We identified four themes. The first theme, 'Who I really am', involves the relationship between individual identity and risks taken. The second theme, 'Taking back control of my life', explored the relationship between risks taken as participants strove to keep control of their lives. The third theme, 'Fear of the "what ifs"', represents how the fear of negative consequences from taking risks impacts risk decisions. Finally, the fourth theme, 'The role of family and friends', highlights the important role that a supporting network can play in their lives in the context of taking risks.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights aspects that can impact on an individual with BD's consideration of risk during euthymia. Identity, control, fear and support all play a role when a person considers risk in their decision-making process, and they should be taken into consideration when exploring risk with individuals with BD in clinical settings, and inform the design of future interventions.

The influence of stage of illness on functional outcomes after psychological treatment in bipolar disorder: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to advance understanding of stage of illness in bipolar disorder (BD), by interrogating the literature for evidence of an influence of stage of illness on functional (ie non-symptom) outcomes following psychosocial intervention.

METHODS

A systematic literature search following PRISMA guidelines was conducted to identify empirical studies of psychosocial interventions for established BD. To investigate stage as a predictor of three functional outcomes (general/social functioning, cognitive functioning and quality of life [QoL]), study samples were dichotomised into earlier and later stage using proxy measures identified in existing staging models. Findings were integrated using data-based convergent synthesis.

RESULTS

A total of 88 analyses from 62 studies were identified. Synthesis across studies suggested that psychosocial intervention was more likely to be effective for general functioning outcomes earlier in the course of established BD. No stage-related differences were found for cognitive or QoL outcomes. Exploratory investigations found some evidence of an interaction between specific intervention type and stage of illness in predicting outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel systematic review provided preliminary evidence that benefits general/social functioning may be more pronounced in earlier versus later stages of established BD. The review also generated hypotheses about a potential three-way interaction, whereby specific psychosocial interventions may be best placed to target functional outcomes in earlier versus later stage BD. The strength of conclusions is limited by the overall low-quality and significant heterogeneity of studies. Further research is urgently required to understand the impact of illness stage on the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions.

Adjuvant psychotherapy in early-stage bipolar disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Bipolar disorders are serious illnesses with a chronic course and a high rate of relapse. Typically, bipolar disorders onset during adolescence or early adulthood, with patients experiencing significant personal and social costs as a consequence of their illness. Despite this, to date, there is limited (controlled) evidence regarding the effectiveness of psychotherapy during the critical stages of the disorder (e.g., early onset). Some preliminary studies suggest that targeted, tailored early interventions in particular may improve disease prognosis. The proposed study examines the effectiveness of group psychotherapy on relapse prevention, global adaptive functioning, and neuropsychological functioning in early-stage bipolar disorder.

Methods

In this multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT), 300 patients with bipolar disorder are randomized to one of two group psychotherapies: Specific Emotional-Cognitive Therapy (SECT; intervention group) or Emotion-Focused Supportive Therapy (EFST; active control group). Each therapy comprises of a total of 48-h sessions (delivered once a month) over a period of 4 months. Assessments take place at baseline (t1); 6 months follow-up, i.e., post-intervention (t2); 12 months follow-up (t3); and 18 months follow-up (t4), whereby 18 months follow-up is the primary time point of interest.

Discussion

The goal of this study is to test the effects of an innovative, specific group therapy relative to an active control condition in terms of rates of relapse, global functioning, and neuropsychological functioning. Pending the outcomes of the trial, it will be possible to establish a firm evidence base for accessible group psychotherapy adjuvant to routine psychiatric care for individuals with bipolar disorder.

Trial registration

USA: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02506322. Registered on 19 December 2014; Germany: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00006013. Registered on21 May 2015

A prospective longitudinal study searching for predictors of response to group psychoeducation in bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of adjunctive group psychoeducation in bipolar disorder has been proven although treatment response differ among individuals. The aim of this study was to characterize responders and non-responders to group psychoeducation in order to identify baseline variables that could predict treatment response.

METHODS

The sample was composed of 103 medicated euthymic patients with bipolar disorder referred to 21 sessions of group psychoeducation (6 months). Sociodemographic and clinical variables, temperament, circadian rhythms, BDNF, cognitive and psychosocial functioning were collected. At the 18-month endpoint, the patients were split in two groups on the basis of having suffered any recurrence. Significant group differences were included in a logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Ninety patients out of 103 engaged in group psychoeducation, 47 of whom (52.2%) responded to psychoeducation and 43 (47.8%) did not. Recurrences occurred more often in the follow-up, the most common being depression. Responders and non-responders differed in gender, age at diagnosis, latency of diagnosis, temperament, attention composite score and BDNF. Lower age at diagnosis of bipolar disorder, lower cyclothimic temperament scores and being male -which was associated with bipolar type I and a trend to more previous manic episodes- were significantly related to a better response to psychoeducation in the regression analysis.

LIMITATIONS

No control group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identifies age at diagnosis as a significant modifiable risk factor of treatment response, highlighting the need for early identification of bipolar disorder. Existing programs should be adjusted to the characteristics of specific subpopulations in the framework of a personalized approach.

Are existing self-ratings of acute manic symptoms in adults reliable and valid?-A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Depression research historically uses both self- and clinician ratings of symptoms with significant and substantial correlations. It is often assumed that manic patients lack insight and cannot accurately report their symptoms. This delayed the development of self-rating scales for mania, but several scales now exist and are used in research. Our objective is to systematically review the literature to identify existing self-ratings of symptoms of (hypo)mania and to evaluate their psychometric properties.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and Ovid were searched up until June 2018 using the keywords: "(hypo)mania," "self-report," and "mood disorder" to identify papers which included data on the validity and reliability of self-rating scales for (hypo)mania in samples including patients with bipolar disorder.

RESULTS

We identified 55 papers reporting on 16 different self-rating scales claiming to assess (hypo)manic symptoms or states. This included single item scales, but also some with over 40 items. Three of the scales, the Internal State Scale (ISS), Altman Self-Rating Mania Scale (ASRM), and Self-Report Manic Inventory (SRMI), provided data about reliability and/or validity in more than three independent studies. Validity was mostly assessed by comparing group means from individuals in different mood states and sometimes by correlation to clinician ratings of mania.

CONCLUSIONS

ASRM, ISS, and SRMI are promising self-rating tools for (hypo)mania to be used in clinical contexts. Future studies are, however, needed to further validate these measures; for example, their associations between each other and sensitivity to change, especially if they are meant to be outcome measures in studies.

Efficacy of cognitive-behavioral group therapy in patients at risk for serious mental illness presenting with subthreshold bipolar symptoms: Results from a prespecified interim analysis of a multicenter, randomized, controlled study

OBJECTIVE

Most patients with bipolar disorders (BD) exhibit prodromal symptoms before a first (hypo)manic episode. Patients with clinically significant symptoms fulfilling at-risk criteria for serious mental illness (SMI) require effective and safe treatment. Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy (CBT) has shown promising results in early stages of BD and in patients at high risk for psychosis. We aimed to investigate whether group CBT can improve symptoms and functional deficits in young patients at risk for SMI presenting with subthreshold bipolar symptoms.

METHOD

In a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial, patients at clinical risk for SMI presenting with subthreshold bipolar symptoms aged 15-30 years were randomized to 14 weeks of at-risk for BD-specific group CBT or unstructured group meetings. Primary efficacy endpoints were differences in affective symptomatology and psychosocial functioning at 14 weeks. At-risk status was defined as a combination of subthreshold bipolar symptomatology, reduction of psychosocial functioning and a family history for (schizo)affective disorders. A prespecified interim analysis was conducted at 75% of the targeted sample.

RESULTS

Of 128 screened participants, 75 were randomized to group CBT (n = 38, completers = 65.8%) vs unstructured group meetings (n = 37, completers = 78.4%). Affective symptomatology and psychosocial functioning improved significantly at week 14 (P < .001) and during 6 months (P < .001) in both groups, without significant between-group differences. Findings are limited by the interim character of the analysis, the use of not fully validated early detection interviews, a newly adapted intervention manual, and the substantial drop-outs.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that young patients at-risk for SMI presenting with subthreshold bipolar symptoms benefit from early group sessions. The degree of specificity and psychotherapeutic interaction needed requires clarification.

The CINP Guidelines on the Definition and Evidence-Based Interventions for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Disorder

BACKGROUND

Resistant bipolar disorder is a major mental health problem related to significant disability and overall cost. The aim of the current study was to perform a systematic review of the literature concerning (1) the definition of treatment resistance in bipolar disorder, (2) its clinical and (3) neurobiological correlates, and (4) the evidence-based treatment options for treatment-resistant bipolar disorder and for eventually developing guidelines for the treatment of this condition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The PRISMA method was used to identify all published papers relevant to the definition of treatment resistance in bipolar disorder and the associated evidence-based treatment options. The MEDLINE was searched to April 22, 2018.

RESULTS

Criteria were developed for the identification of resistance in bipolar disorder concerning all phases. The search of the literature identified all published studies concerning treatment options. The data were classified according to strength, and separate guidelines regarding resistant acute mania, acute bipolar depression, and the maintenance phase were developed.

DISCUSSION

The definition of resistance in bipolar disorder is by itself difficult due to the complexity of the clinical picture, course, and treatment options. The current guidelines are the first, to our knowledge, developed specifically for the treatment of resistant bipolar disorder patients, and they also include an operationalized definition of treatment resistance. They were based on a thorough and deep search of the literature and utilize as much as possible an evidence-based approach.

Psychoeducation and cognitive-behavioral therapy for patients with refractory bipolar disorder: A 5-year controlled clinical trial

Objective:

The aim of this research, which represents an additional and longer follow-up to a previous trial, was to evaluate a 5-year follow-up study of a combined treatment (pharmacological + psychoeducational and cognitive-behavioral therapy) as compared with a standard pharmacological treatment in patients with refractory bipolar disorder.

Method:

Forty patients were randomly assigned to either an Experimental group–under combined treatment — or a Control group — under pharmacological treatment. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA), with repeated measures at different evaluation time points.

Results:

Between-group differences were significant at all evaluation time points after treatment. Experimental group had less hospitalization events than Control group in the 12-month evaluation (P = 0.015). The Experimental group showed lower depression and anxiety in the 6-month (P = 0.006; P = 0.019), 12-month (P = 0.001; P < 0.001) and 5-year (P < 0.001, P < 0.001) evaluation time points. Significant differences emerged in mania and misadjustment already in the post-treatment evaluation (P = 0.009; P < 0.001) and were sustained throughout the study (6-month: P = 0.006, P < 0.001; 12-month: P < 0.001, P < 0.001; 5-year: P = 0.004, P < 0.001). After 5-year follow-up, 88.9% of patients in the Control group and 20% of patients in the Experimental group showed persistent affective symptoms and/or difficulties in social-occupational functioning.

Conclusions:

A combined therapy is long-term effective for patients with refractory bipolar disorder. Suggestions for future research are commented.

A Multicenter Phase II RCT to Compare the Effectiveness of EMDR Versus TAU in Patients With a First-Episode Psychosis and Psychological Trauma: A Protocol Design

Background

Patients with a first episode psychosis (FEP) who are admitted for the first time to a psychiatric hospital frequently have experienced prior psychological trauma. Additionally, 40-80% develop posttraumatic stress symptoms, which are summarized as a post-psychotic post-traumatic syndrome (PPS). Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy could be an effective psychotherapy to treat a PPS and prior psychological traumas in this population.

Objectives

To assess if EMDR therapy leads to: 1) a reduction of relapses after intervention, 2) an improvement of trauma-related, psychotic and affective symptoms, 3) an improvement of overall functioning, and 4) an improvement in quality of life.

Methods

This is a multicenter phase II rater-blinded randomized controlled trial in which 80 FEP patients with a history of psychological trauma will be randomly assigned to EMDR (n = 40) or to TAU (n = 40). Traumatic events will be measured by the Global Assessment of Posttraumatic Stress Questionnaire, the Cumulative Trauma Screening, the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, the Dissociative Experiences Scale, the Childhood Trauma Scale, the Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory, and the Dissociative Experiences Questionnaire. Clinical symptomatology will be evaluated using the Suicide and Drug Consumption module of the International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Structured Clinical Interview for Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Young's Scale for Mania Evaluation, and Beck Depression II Questionnaire. Functionality will be assessed with the Global Assessment of Functioning and the Quality of Life with the Standardized Instrument developed by the EuroQol Group. The cognitive insight and adherence to the treatment will be assessed with the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale and the Drug Attitude Inventory. All variables will be measured at baseline, post-treatment and at 12-month follow-up.

Conclusion

This study will provide evidence of whether EMDR therapy is effective in reducing trauma and clinical symptoms, reducing relapses and in improving functionality and quality of life in patients with FEP and a history of trauma.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03991377.

Reward sensitivity and the course of bipolar disorder: A survival analysis in a treatment seeking sample

OBJECTIVES

Reward sensitivity is suggested to be an influence on the onset and reoccurrence of bipolar disorder (BD) in observational longitudinal studies. The current study examined whether reward sensitivity predicted the recurrence of mood episodes in a treatment seeking sample. We also explored if reward sensitivity moderated treatment outcomes of psychosocial treatment.

METHODS

Seventy-six euthymic adult patients with BD were randomly assigned to either Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Supportive Therapy (ST) and followed up for 2 years after completing therapy (Meyer and Hautzinger, 2012). The primary outcome measure was recurrence of mood episodes. The final multivariate Cox regression models included potential covariates, therapy conditions, BAS reward sensitivity, and the interaction between BAS and therapy conditions.

RESULTS

BAS emerged as the only significant predictor of time till recurrence of mania, but not depression, but the overall model did not reach significance. There was no interaction between treatment and BAS reward sensitivity. Interestingly, a diagnosis of BD II predicted time till recurrence of depression.

CONCLUSION

The main result regarding BAS partially confirms prior studies linking BAS and mania, but power and the specific sample seeking psychosocial treatment might have reduced the effect.

A preliminary study of group therapy intervention for bipolar disorder based on the integrative cognitive model

The main aim of this research was to investigate the effect of the 8-week group therapy intervention based on the integrative cognitive model (ICM) of bipolar disorder. The sample was composed of 10 patients with bipolar I and bipolar II diagnoses. The group sessions were held once a week for 1.5 hours. For the quantitative measures, the group participants were assessed during pre-test, post-test and 3-month follow-up using the Turkish versions of the Beck Depression Inventory, the Hypomanic Attitudes and Positive Predictions Inventory, the Psychological Well-being Scale and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Quantitative analyses revealed that a reliable change was seen only in pre-test and post-test depression scores. However, this change could not be maintained at 3-month follow-up. For the qualitative analyses, data collected during semi-structured interviews were used. The thematic analyses results showed that the 8-week ICM-based group therapy was found to help participants make sound observations about their behaviors, decrease their feelings of loneliness and increase self-acceptance, and acceptance of the role of mood swings in their lives. Moreover, the results showed that participants found the following activities very beneficial: describing their emotions, evaluating the intensity of their emotions, identifying their life goals, coping with interpersonal conflicts, evaluating resources and going over strengths. In conclusion, the 8-week ICM-based group therapy had a positive impact on participants’ self-awareness, self-acceptance and self-perception.

Key learning aims

(1)

Feasibility and acceptability of integrated psychological therapy versus treatment as usual for people with bipolar disorder and co-morbid alcohol use: A single blind randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Alcohol use is a common problem in bipolar disorder (BD) and evidence indicates more promising outcomes for alcohol use than other substances. No trials have evaluated individual integrated motivational interviewing and cognitive behaviour therapy (MI-CBT) for problematic alcohol use in BD. We therefore assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a novel MI-CBT intervention for alcohol use in BD.

METHODS

A single blind RCT was conducted to compare MI-CBT plus treatment as usual (TAU) with TAU only. MI-CBT was delivered over 20 sessions with participants followed up at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post-randomisation. Primary outcomes were the feasibility and acceptability of MI-CBT (recruitment to target, retention to follow-up and therapy, acceptability of therapy and absence of adverse events). We also conducted preliminary analyses of alcohol and mood outcomes (frequency and severity of alcohol use and time to mood relapse).

RESULTS

44 participants were recruited with 75% retention to 6 and 12 months follow-up. Therapy participants attended a mean of 17.6 (SD 4.5) sessions. Therapy alliance and treatment fidelity were acceptable. Qualitative interviews indicated the intervention was experienced as collaborative, and helpful, in addressing mood and alcohol issues, although risk of overconfidence following therapy was also identified. Clinical outcomes did not differ between arms at 12 months follow-up.

LIMITATIONS

As a feasibility and acceptability trial any secondary results should be treated with caution.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrated MI-CBT is feasible and acceptable, but lack of clinical impact, albeit in a feasibility study, suggests need for further development. Potential adaptations are discussed.

Evidence-Based Psychotherapies for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a recurrent psychiatric disorder marked by waxing and waning affective symptoms and impairment in functioning. Some of the morbidity and mortality associated with the illness may be reduced with evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) along with pharmacotherapy. To enhance clinicians' understanding of which therapy modalities have evidence supporting their use, the authors conducted a systematic literature review to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of psychotherapy for adults with bipolar disorder. A strong evidence base exists for psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and peer-support programs. Promising modalities include functional remediation, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, illness management and recovery, and technology-assisted strategies. RCTs demonstrate a consistent advantage of these psychotherapies plus pharmacotherapy, compared with the use of pharmacotherapy alone. Adjunctive EBPs hasten time to remission, delay time to recurrence, and improve functional outcomes. EBPs play an important role in helping individuals develop skills needed to manage the persistent and lifelong psychosocial, neurocognitive, vocational, and interpersonal consequences of bipolar disorder. Continued efforts to improve the effectiveness of EBPs for adults with bipolar disorder are warranted.

Symptoms, course of Illness, and comorbidity as predictors of expressed emotion in bipolar disorder

High levels of expressed emotions (EE) reflect the amount of criticism and/or over-involvement in families and has been linked to relapse risk in various psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder (BD). Less clear is which factors contribute to the development and/or maintenance of EE. Therefore, we tested whether patient characteristics, specifically clinical features and personality disorder traits in BD predicted key aspects of EE as assessed by patients and their relatives. Patients with remitted BD and their relatives were asked to complete the Family Attitude Scale (FAS) and the Perceived Criticism Measure (PCM). Patient characteristics were assessed with a variety of measures including SCID I and II. The FAS and PCM shared 25% of the variance for patients and 14% for relatives, suggesting a conceptual overlap, but they may not assess identical constructs. The number of previous mood episodes, current self-rated manic symptoms, and comorbid symptoms of Cluster C personality disorder predicted patient-rated FAS. Relative-rated FAS was only predicted by comorbid symptoms of Cluster A personality disorder. In BD, specific patient characteristics seem to be linked to key aspects of EE even when in remission. However, it might depend whether the patient, his/her relative, or a neutral observer assessed EE.

Psychosocial Interventions for Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II disorder causes significant suffering among patients and their families, some of which may be alleviated by psychotherapy alone or as an adjunct to pharmacotherapy. Psychotherapies may be more effective if modified to meet the specific needs of patients with bipolar II disorder.

The Long-Term Effectiveness of Psychoeducation for Bipolar Disorders in Mental Health Services. A 4-Year Follow-Up Study

Aims: The aims of the present study were to assess: the effectiveness of psychoeducation in mental health service (MHSs) in terms of time to first hospitalization during 4-year follow-up; the number and the days of hospitalizations, and the number of people hospitalized at 4-year follow-up; and variables associated with better outcome in BD patients. Methods: This is a controlled study involving an experimental group (N = 57) and a control group (N = 52). The treatment phase consists of 21 weeks, in which all participants received TAU, while the experimental group received additional psychoeducation. Results: The survival analysis showed significant differences in terms of time to first hospitalization of up to 4-year follow-up: the patients in the psychoeducation group showed a longer time free from hospitalizations than the control group. Concerning the predictors of time to first hospitalization, the only factor that showed a trend to statistical significance was psychoeducation. Conclusions: This is one of few studies assessing the long-term effectiveness of psychoeducation in a naturalistic setting. The data confirm that psychoeducation can impact illness course, in terms of longer time free from hospitalizations. Trial registration: ISRCTN17827459.

The feasibility and acceptability of a novel anxiety in bipolar disorder intervention compared to treatment as usual: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Comorbid anxiety is common in bipolar disorder (BD) and associated with worse clinical outcomes including increased suicidality. Despite effective psychological treatments for anxiety, research into treating anxiety in BD is underdeveloped. This paper describes a novel psychological intervention to address anxiety in context of bipolar disorder (AIBD).

METHODS

Adults with BD and clinically significant anxiety symptoms were randomized to AIBD plus treatment as usual (TAU) or TAU alone. AIBD offered 10 sessions of psychological therapy using a formulation-based approach. Feasibility and acceptability were evaluated through recruitment, retention, therapy attendance, alliance, fidelity, and qualitative feedback. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline, 16, 48, and 80 weeks: interim assessments of relapse at 32 and 64 weeks.

RESULTS

Seventy-two participants were recruited with 88% retention to 16 weeks and 74% to 80 weeks (similar between arms). Therapy participants attended <mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"> <mml:mrow><mml:mover><mml:mi>x</mml:mi> <mml:mo>¯</mml:mo></mml:mover> <mml:mspace/></mml:mrow> </mml:math> 7.7 (SD 2.8) sessions. Therapeutic alliance and therapy fidelity were acceptable. Qualitative interviews indicated that participants valued integrated support for anxiety with BD and coping strategies. Some suggested a longer intervention period. Clinical outcomes were not significantly different between arms up to 80 weeks follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

AIBD is feasible and acceptable but lack of impact on clinical outcomes indicates that adaptations are required. These are discussed in relation to qualitative feedback and recent literature published since the trial completed.

Reducing relapse and suicide in bipolar disorder: practical clinical approaches to identifying risk, reducing harm and engaging service users in planning and delivery of care – the PARADES (Psychoeducation, Anxiety, Relapse, Advance Directive Evaluation and Suicidality) programme

Background

Bipolar disorder (BD) costs £5.2B annually, largely as a result of incomplete recovery after inadequate treatment.

Objectives

A programme of linked studies to reduce relapse and suicide in BD.

Design

There were five workstreams (WSs): a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (RCT) of group psychoeducation (PEd) versus group peer support (PS) in the maintenance of BD (WS1); development and feasibility RCTs of integrated psychological therapy for anxiety in bipolar disorder (AIBD) and integrated for problematic alcohol use in BD (WS2 and WS3); survey and qualitative investigations of suicide and self-harm in BD (WS4); and survey and qualitative investigation of service users’ (SUs) and psychiatrists’ experience of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA), with reference to advance planning (WS5).

Setting

Participants were from England; recruitment into RCTs was limited to certain sites [East Midlands and North West (WS1); North West (WS2 and WS3)].

Participants

Aged ≥ 18 years. In WS1–3, participants had their diagnosis of BD confirmed by the Structural Clinical Interview for theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

Interventions

In WS1, group PEd/PS; in WS3 and WS4, individual psychological therapy for comorbid anxiety and alcohol use, respectively.

Main outcome measures

In WS1, time to relapse of bipolar episode; in WS2 and WS3, feasibility and acceptability of interventions; in WS4, prevalence and determinants of suicide and self-harm; and in WS5, professional training and support of advance planning in MCA, and SU awareness and implementation.

Results

Group PEd and PS could be routinely delivered in the NHS. The estimated median time to first bipolar relapse was 67.1 [95% confidence interval (CI) 37.3 to 90.9] weeks in PEd, compared with 48.0 (95% CI 30.6 to 65.9) weeks in PS. The adjusted hazard ratio was 0.83 (95% CI 0.62 to 1.11; likelihood ratio testp = 0.217). The interaction between the number of previous bipolar episodes (1–7 and 8–19, relative to 20+) and treatment arm was significant (χ2 = 6.80, degrees of freedom = 2;p = 0.034): PEd with one to seven episodes showed the greatest delay in time to episode. A primary economic analysis indicates that PEd is not cost-effective compared with PS. A sensitivity analysis suggests potential cost-effectiveness if decision-makers accept a cost of £37,500 per quality-adjusted life-year. AIBD and motivational interviewing (MI) cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) trials were feasible and acceptable in achieving recruitment and retention targets (AIBD:n = 72, 72% retention to follow-up; MI-CBT:n = 44, 75% retention) and in-depth qualitative interviews. There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes for either trial overall. The factors associated with risk of suicide and self-harm (longer duration of illness, large number of periods of inpatient care, and problems establishing diagnosis) could inform improved clinical care and specific interventions. Qualitative interviews suggested that suicide risk had been underestimated, that care needs to be more collaborative and that people need fast access to good-quality care. Despite SUs supporting advance planning and psychiatrists being trained in MCA, the use of MCA planning provisions was low, with confusion over informal and legally binding plans.

Limitations

Inferences for routine clinical practice from WS1 were limited by the absence of a ‘treatment as usual’ group.

Conclusion

The programme has contributed significantly to understanding how to improve outcomes in BD. Group PEd is being implemented in the NHS influenced by SU support.

Future work

Future work is needed to evaluate optimal approaches to psychological treatment of comorbidity in BD. In addition, work in improved risk detection in relation to suicide and self-harm in clinical services and improved training in MCA are indicated.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN62761948, ISRCTN84288072 and ISRCTN14774583.

Funding

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full inProgramme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 6, No. 6. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

A mania-related memory bias is associated with risk for relapse in bipolar disorder<sup/>

OBJECTIVE

Previous work has shown that neuropsychological performance can predict outcome of psychotherapy. The present paper explores whether an affective bias in verbal memory is associated with recurrence of mood episodes in patients with Bipolar Disorder (BD).

METHOD

76 euthymic adult patients with BD were randomly assigned to either 9 months of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Support Therapy (ST), and followed up for 2 years after completing therapy. At baseline, affective learning memory (Emotional Auditory Verbal Learning Test; EMO-AVLT) and other measures were assessed. Recurrence of a mood episode was the primary outcome.

RESULTS

The survival analyses revealed that the interaction between therapy condition, more specifically ST, and a recognition bias in favor of mania-related, but not depression-related words predicted recurrence of mania. Recurrence of depression was predicted by neither affective memory bias nor their interaction with treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

A mania-related memory bias emerged as a predictor of mania recurrence, specifically in an unstructured setting such as ST. Perhaps mania-related schemata are more salient or more easily activated in those at high risk for recurrence. Interventions targeting patients' insight into their internal states as potential indicators of prodromal manic symptoms could be the key to improve the outcome of psychological interventions in BD. Additional research in the role of cognitive factors in relapse prevention is warranted.

Memory performance predicts response to psychotherapy for depression in bipolar disorder: A pilot randomized controlled trial with exploratory functional magnetic resonance imaging

OBJECTIVE

This pilot randomized controlled trial compared Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Supportive Psychotherapy (SP) for the treatment of depression in bipolar I disorder. We also examined whether exploratory verbal memory, executive functioning, and neural correlates of verbal memory during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) predicted change in depression severity.

METHODS

Thirty-two adults (ages 18-65) with DSM-IV bipolar I disorder meeting current criteria for a major depressive episode were randomized to 18 weeks of CBT or SP. Symptom severity was assessed before, at the mid-point, and after the 18-week intervention. All participants completed a brief pre-treatment neuropsychological testing battery (including the California Verbal Learning Test-2nd Edition, Delis Kaplan Executive Functioning System [DKEFS] Trail-making Test, and DKEFS Sorting Test), and a sub-set of 17 participants provided usable fMRI data while completing a verbal learning paradigm that consisted of encoding word lists.

RESULTS

CBT and SP yielded comparable improvement in depressive symptoms from pre- to post-treatment. Better retention of learned information (CVLT-II long delay free recall vs. Trial 5) and recognition (CVLT-II hits) were associated with greater improvement in depression in both treatments. Increased activation in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and right hippocampus during encoding was also related to depressive symptom improvement.

LIMITATIONS

Sample size precluded tests of clinical factors that may interact with cognitive/neural function to predict treatment outcome.

CONCLUSION

Neuropsychological assessment and fMRI offer additive information regarding who is most likely to benefit from psychotherapy for bipolar depression.

Resilience dimensions and mental health outcomes in bipolar disorder in a follow-up study

The individual process of resilience has been related to positive outcomes in mental disorders. We aimed (a) to identify the resilience domains from the Resilience Questionnaire for Bipolar Disorder that are associated cross sectionally and longitudinally with mental health outcomes in bipolar disorder (BD) and (b) to explore cross-lagged associations among resilience factors. A clinical adult sample of 125 patients diagnosed with BD (62.10% female, mean age = 46.13, SD = 10.89) gave their informed consent and completed a battery of disease-specific tools on resilience, personal recovery, symptomatology, psychosocial functioning, and quality of life, at baseline and at follow-up (n = 63, 58.10% female, mean age = 45.13, SD = 11.06, participation rate = 50.40%). Resilience domains of self-management of BD, turning point, self-care, and self-confidence were significantly associated with mental health indicators at baseline. In addition, self-confidence at baseline directly predicted an increase in personal recovery at follow-up, and self-confidence improvement mediated the relationship between interpersonal support and self-care at baseline and personal recovery at follow-up. These findings highlight that resilience domains are significantly associated with positive mental health outcomes in BD and that some predict personal recovery at follow-up. Moreover, some resilience factors improve other resilience factors over time.

Treating complex depression with cognitive behavioural therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for major depression is an effective treatment, but outcomes for complex cases, with co-occurring biological, psychological and social factors, are variable. Complexity factors can cause treatment to become diffuse, disorganized and over-complicated. At Step 3, disorder-specific protocols should be provided with therapy kept as simple as possible and delivered responsively, e.g. barriers to treatment should be tackled, ensure the client is well-prepared and seek to form a strong therapeutic alliance. At Step 4, if disorder-specific protocols have been ineffective, the priority is to formulate how complexity factors are interacting with the client's depression. An individualized formulation is used to carefully target these interactions. The treatment is still evidence-based and simple at the point of delivery, but there is greater emphasis on case-level interactions that are unique to each individual. Case examples are used to illustrate both approaches.

Transdiagnostic treatment of bipolar disorder and comorbid anxiety using the Unified Protocol for Emotional Disorders: A pilot feasibility and acceptability trial

BACKGROUND

Comorbid anxiety in bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with greater illness severity, reduced treatment response, and greater impairment. Treating anxiety in the context of BD is crucial for improving illness course and outcomes. The current study examined the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of the Unified Protocol (UP), a transdiagnostic cognitive behavioral therapy, as an adjunctive treatment to pharmacotherapy for BD and comorbid anxiety disorders.

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients with BD and at least one comorbid anxiety disorder were randomized to pharmacotherapy treatment-as-usual (TAU) or TAU with 18 sessions of the UP (UP+TAU). All patients completed assessments every four weeks to track symptoms, functioning, emotion regulation and temperament. Linear mixed-model regressions were conducted to track symptom changes over time and to examine the relationship between emotion-related variables and treatment response.

RESULTS

Satisfaction ratings were equivalent for both treatment groups. Patients in the UP+TAU group evidenced significantly greater reductions over time in anxiety and depression symptoms (Cohen's d's>0.80). Baseline levels of neuroticism, perceived affective control, and emotion regulation ability predicted magnitude of symptom change for the UP+TAU group only. Greater change in perceived control of emotions and emotion regulation skills predicted greater change in anxiety related symptoms.

LIMITATIONS

This was a pilot feasibility and acceptability trial; results should be interpreted with caution.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with the UP+TAU was rated high in patient satisfaction, and resulted in significantly greater improvement on indices of anxiety and depression relative to TAU. This suggests that the UP may be a feasible treatment approach for BD with comorbid anxiety.

Efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in patients with bipolar disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Although cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered a promising adjuvant to pharmacotherapy for treating bipolar disorder (BD), its efficacy is unproven. The present review and meta-analysis evaluated the treatment outcomes of patients with BD treated with CBT plus medication and compared these data with the outcomes of those who received standard care alone.

METHODS

Electronic searches from inception to July 31, 2016, were performed using PubMed, Medline OVID, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL plus, and PsycINFO. In the extensive electronic literature search, keywords such as "bipolar disorder," "manic-depressive psychosis," "bipolar affective disorder," "bipolar depression," "cognitive therapy," "cognitive-behavioral therapy," and "psychotherapy" were transformed into MeSH terms, and only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) of relapse rates and Hedges's g, along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), for the mean differences in the levels of depression, mania, and psychosocial functioning were calculated. Further subgroup analyses were conducted according to the characteristics of the CBT approaches, patients, and therapists, if the data were available.

RESULT

A total of 19 RCTs comprising 1384 patients with type I or II BD were enrolled in our systematic review and meta-analysis. The main analysis revealed that CBT could lower the relapse rate (pooled OR = 0.506; 95% CI = 0.278 -0.921) and improve depressive symptoms (g = -0.494; 95% CI = -0.963 to -0.026), mania severity (g = -0.581; 95% CI = -1.127 to -0.035), and psychosocial functioning (g = 0.457; 95% CI = 0.106-0.809).

CONCLUSIONS

CBT is effective in decreasing the relapse rate and improving depressive symptoms, mania severity, and psychosocial functioning, with a mild-to-moderate effect size. Subgroup analyses indicated that improvements in depression or mania are more potent with a CBT treatment duration of ≥90 min per session, and the relapse rate is much lower among patients with type I BD.

Psychosocial therapies for the adjunctive treatment of bipolar disorder in adults: network meta-analysis

BackgroundFew trials have compared psychosocial therapies for people with bipolar affective disorder, and conventional meta-analyses provided limited comparisons between therapies.AimsTo combine evidence for the efficacy of psychosocial interventions used as adjunctive treatment of bipolar disorder in adults, using network meta-analysis (NMA).MethodSystematic review identified studies and NMA was used to pool data on relapse to mania or depression, medication adherence, and symptom scales for mania, depression and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF).ResultsCarer-focused interventions significantly reduced the risk of depressive or manic relapse. Psychoeducation alone and in combination with cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) significantly reduced medication non-adherence. Psychoeducation plus CBT significantly reduced manic symptoms and increased GAF. No intervention was associated with a significant reduction in depression symptom scale scores.ConclusionsOnly interventions for family members affected relapse rates. Psychoeducation plus CBT reduced medication non-adherence, improved mania symptoms and GAF. Novel methods for addressing depressive symptoms are required.

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy versus supportive therapy in affective relapse prevention in bipolar patients with a history of trauma: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Up to 60% of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) have a history of traumatic events, which is associated with greater episode severity, higher risk of comorbidity and higher relapse rates. Trauma-focused treatment strategies for BD are thus necessary but studies are currently scarce. The aim of this study is to examine whether Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy focusing on adherence, insight, de-idealisation of manic symptoms, prodromal symptoms and mood stabilization can reduce episode severity and relapse rates and increase cognitive performance and functioning in patients with BD.

METHODS/DESIGN

This is a single-blind, randomized controlled, multicentre trial in which 82 patients with BD and a history of traumatic events will be recruited and randomly allocated to one of two treatment arms: EMDR therapy or supportive therapy. Patients in both groups will receive 20 psychotherapeutic sessions, 60 min each, during 6 months. The primary outcome is a reduction of affective episodes after 12 and 24 months in favour of the EMDR group. As secondary outcome we postulate a greater reduction in affective symptoms in the EMDR group (as measured by the Bipolar Depression Rating Scale, the Young Mania Rating Scale and the Clinical Global Impression Scale modified for BD), and a better performance in cognitive state, social cognition and functioning (as measured by the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry, The Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test and the Functioning Assessment Short Test, respectively). Traumatic events will be evaluated by The Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory, the Clinician-administered PTSD Scale and the Impact of Event Scale.

DISCUSSION

The results of this study will provide evidence whether a specific EMDR protocol for patients with BD is effective in reducing affective episodes, affective symptoms and functional, cognitive and trauma symptoms.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT02634372 . Registered on 3 December 2015.

Cognitive-behavioral rehabilitation vs. treatment as usual for bipolar patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder (BD) is commonly associated with cognitive and functional impairments even during remission periods, and although a growing number of studies have demonstrated the benefits of psychotherapy as an add-on to pharmacological treatment, its effectiveness appears to be less compelling in severe presentations of the disorder. New interventions have attempted to improve cognitive functioning in BD patients, but results have been mixed.

METHODS

The study consists of a clinical trial comparing a new structured group intervention, called "Cognitive-Behavioral Rehabilitation," with treatment as usual (TAU) for bipolar patients. The new approach is a combination of cognitive behavioral strategies and cognitive remediation exercises, consisting of 12 weekly group sessions of 90 min each. To be included in the study, patients must be diagnosed with BD type I or II, aged 18-55 years, in full or partial remission, and have an IQ of at least 80. A comprehensive neuropsychological battery, followed by mood, social functioning, and quality of life assessments will occur in three moments: pre and post intervention and 12 months later. The primary outcome of the study is to compare the time, in weeks, that the first full mood episode appears in patients who participated in either group of the study. Secondary outcome will include improvement in cognitive functions.

DISCUSSION

This is the first controlled trial assessing the validity and effectiveness of the new "Cognitive-Behavioral Rehabilitation" intervention in preventing new mood episodes and improving cognitive and functional impairments.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrial.gov, NCT02766361 . Registered on 2 May 2016.

Memory performance predicts recurrence of mania in bipolar disorder following psychotherapy: A preliminary study

OBJECTIVE

Cognitive complaints are common features of bipolar disorder (BD). Not much is, however, known about the potential moderator effects of these factors on the outcome of talking therapies. The goal of our study was to explore whether learning and memory abilities predict risk of recurrence of mood episodes or interact with a psychological intervention.

METHOD

We analyzed data collected as part of a clinical trial evaluating relapse rates following Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Supportive Therapy (ST) (Meyer and Hautzinger, 2012). We included cognitive (Auditive Verbal Learning Test, general intelligence - Leistungsprüfsystem) and clinical measures from 76 euthymic patients with BD randomly assigned to either 9 months of CBT or ST and followed up for 2 years.

RESULTS

Survival analyses including treatment condition, AVLT measures, and general intelligence revealed that recurrence of mania was predicted by verbal free recall. The significant interaction between therapy condition and free recall indicated that while in CBT recurrence of mania was unrelated to free recall performance, in ST patients with a better free recall were more likely to remain euthymic, and those with a poorer free recall were less likely to remain mania-free.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings constitute first evidence that, when considering treatment outcome in BD, differences in verbal free recall might interact with the kind of psychotherapy provided. More research is needed to determine what other areas of cognitive functioning are related to outcome in psychological interventions.

Aims and structure of the German Research Consortium BipoLife for the study of bipolar disorder

Background

Bipolar disorder is a severe and heterogeneous mental disorder. Despite great advances in neuroscience over the past decades, the precise causative mechanisms at the transmitter, cellular or network level have so far not been unraveled. As a result, individual treatment decisions cannot be tailor-made and the uncertain prognosis is based on clinical characteristics alone. Although a subpopulation of patients have an excellent response to pharmacological monotherapy, other subpopulations have been less well served by the medical system and therefore require more focused attention. In particular individuals at high risk of bipolar disorder, young patients in the early stages of bipolar disorder, patients with an unstable highly relapsing course and patients with acute suicidal ideation have been identified as those in need.

Structure

A research consortium of ten universities across Germany has therefore implemented a 4 year research agenda including three randomized controlled trials, one epidemiological trial and one cross-sectional trial to address these areas of unmet needs. The topics under investigation will be the improvement of early recognition, specific psychotherapy, and smartphones as an aid for early episode detection and biomarkers of lithium response. A subset of patients will be investigated utilizing neuroimaging (fMRI), neurophysiology (EEG), and biomaterials (genomics, transcriptomics).

Conclusions

This article aims to outline the rationale, design, and methods of these individual studies.

Empirically supported psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder: Current state of the research

OBJECTIVES

Bipolar disorder requires psychiatric medications, but even guideline-concordant treatment fails to bring many patients to remission or keep them euthymic. To address this gap, researchers have developed adjunctive psychotherapies. The purpose of this paper is to critically review the evidence for the efficacy of manualized psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder.

METHODS

We conducted a search of the literature to examine recent (2007-present), randomized controlled studies of the following psychotherapy interventions for bipolar disorder: psychoeducation (PE), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and family therapies such as family focused therapy (FFT).

RESULTS

All of the psychotherapy interventions appear to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms. Psychoeducation and CBT are associated with increased time to mood episode relapse or recurrence. MBCT has demonstrated a particular effectiveness in improving depressive and anxiety symptoms. Online psychotherapy interventions, programs combining one or more psychotherapy interventions, and targeted interventions centering on particular symptoms have been the focus of recent, randomized controlled studies in bipolar disorder.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychotherapy interventions for the treatment of bipolar disorder have substantial evidence for efficacy. The next challenge will to disseminate these psychotherapies into the community.

Effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy in treating bipolar disorder: An updated meta-analysis with randomized controlled trials

AIM

The aim of this updated meta-analysis was to further assess the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating bipolar disorder (BD).

METHODS

We carried out a literature search on PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library up to October 2015. We calculated the pooled relative risk of relapse rate and standard mean difference (SMD) of mean change (data at a follow-up time-point - baseline) of the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Hopelessness Scale, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and Mania Rating Scale scores with their 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Subgroup analyses based on follow-up time were performed.

RESULTS

Nine randomized controlled trials with 520 bipolar I or II disorder patients were reanalyzed. Overall analysis showed that CBT did not significantly reduce the relapse rate of BD or improve the level of depression. However, significant efficacy of CBT in improving severity of mania was proved based on the YMRS (SMD = -0.54, 95%CI, -1.03 to -0.06, P  = 0.03) but not based on MRS. Subgroup analyses showed that CBT had short-term efficacy in reducing relapse rate of BD (at 6 months' follow-up: relative risk = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.29-0.81, P  = 0.006) and improving severity of mania based on YMRS score (post-treatment: SMD = -0.30, 95%CI, -0.59 to -0.01, P  = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Short-term efficacy of CBT in reducing relapse rate of BD and improving the severity of mania was proved. But these effects could be weakened by time. In addition, there was no effect of CBT on level of depression in BD.

Evidence-based guidelines for treating bipolar disorder: Revised third edition recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology

The British Association for Psychopharmacology guidelines specify the scope and targets of treatment for bipolar disorder. The third version is based explicitly on the available evidence and presented, like previous Clinical Practice Guidelines, as recommendations to aid clinical decision making for practitioners: it may also serve as a source of information for patients and carers, and assist audit. The recommendations are presented together with a more detailed review of the corresponding evidence. A consensus meeting, involving experts in bipolar disorder and its treatment, reviewed key areas and considered the strength of evidence and clinical implications. The guidelines were drawn up after extensive feedback from these participants. The best evidence from randomized controlled trials and, where available, observational studies employing quasi-experimental designs was used to evaluate treatment options. The strength of recommendations has been described using the GRADE approach. The guidelines cover the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, clinical management, and strategies for the use of medicines in short-term treatment of episodes, relapse prevention and stopping treatment. The use of medication is integrated with a coherent approach to psychoeducation and behaviour change.

Psychological approaches to understanding and promoting recovery in psychosis and bipolar disorder: a mixed-methods approach

Background

Recovery in mental health is a relatively new concept, but it is becoming more accepted that people can recover from psychosis. Recovery-orientated services are recommended for adult mental health, but with little evidence base to support this.

Objectives

To facilitate understanding and promotion of recovery in psychosis and bipolar disorder (BD), in a manner that is empowering and acceptable to service users.

Method

There were six linked projects using qualitative and quantitative methodologies: (1) developing and piloting a service user-defined measure of recovery; (2) a Delphi study to determine levels of consensus around the concept of recovery; (3) examination of the psychological factors associated with recovery and how these fluctuate over time; (4) development and evaluation of cognitive–behavioural approaches to guided self-help including a patient preference trial (PPT); (5) development and evaluation of cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) for understanding and preventing suicide in psychosis including a randomised controlled trial (RCT); and (6) development and evaluation of a cognitive–behavioural approach to recovery in recent onset BD, including a RCT of recovery-focused cognitive–behavioural therapy (RfCBT). Service user involvement was central to the programme.

Results

Measurement of service user-defined recovery from psychosis (using the Subjective Experience of Psychosis Scale) and BD (using the Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire) was shown to be feasible and valid. The consensus study revealed a high level of agreement among service users for defining recovery, factors that help or hinder recovery and items which demonstrate recovery. Negative emotions, self-esteem and hope predicted recovery judgements, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally, whereas positive symptoms had an indirect effect. In the PPT, 89 participants entered the study, three were randomised, 57 were retained in the trial until 15-month follow-up (64%). At follow-up there was no overall treatment effect on the primary outcome (Questionnaire about the Process of Recovery total;p = 0.82). In the suicide prevention RCT, 49 were randomised and 35 were retained at 6-month follow-up (71%). There were significant improvements in suicidal ideation [Adult Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire; treatment effect = –12.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) –24.3 to –0.14], Suicide Probability Scale (SPS; treatment effect = –7.0, 95% CI –15.5 to 0) and hopelessness (subscale of the SPS; treatment effect = –3.8, 95% CI –7.3 to –0.5) at follow-up. In the RCT for BD, 67 participants were randomised and 45 were retained at the 12-month follow-up (67%). Recovery score significantly improved in comparison with treatment as usual (TAU) at follow-up (310.87, 95% CI 75.00 to 546.74). At 15-month follow-up, 32 participants had experienced a relapse of either depression or mania (20 TAU vs. 12 RfCBT). The difference in time to recurrence was significant (estimated hazard ratio 0.38, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.78;p < 0.006).

Conclusions

This research programme has improved our understanding of recovery in psychosis and BD. Key findings indicate that measurement of recovery is feasible and valid. It would be feasible to scale up the RCTs to assess effectiveness of our therapeutic approaches in larger full trials, and two of the studies (CBT for suicide prevention in psychosis and recovery in BD) found significant benefits on their primary outcomes despite limited statistical power, suggesting definitive trials are warranted.

Funding

The National Institute for Health Research Programme Grants for Applied Research programme.

Psychological interventions for adults with bipolar disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Psychological interventions may be beneficial in bipolar disorder.

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy of psychological interventions for adults with bipolar disorder.

METHOD

A systematic review of randomised controlled trials was conducted. Outcomes were meta-analysed using RevMan and confidence assessed using the GRADE method.

RESULTS

We included 55 trials with 6010 participants. Moderate-quality evidence associated individual psychological interventions with reduced relapses at post-treatment (risk ratio (RR) = 0.66, 95% CI 0.48-0.92) and follow-up (RR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.63-0.87), and collaborative care with a reduction in hospital admissions (RR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.94). Low-quality evidence associated group interventions with fewer depression relapses at post-treatment and follow-up, and family psychoeducation with reduced symptoms of depression and mania.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence that psychological interventions are effective for people with bipolar disorder. Much of the evidence was of low or very low quality thereby limiting our conclusions. Further research should identify the most effective (and cost-effective) interventions for each phase of this disorder.

Psychosocial treatment and interventions for bipolar disorder: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic disorder with a high relapse rate, significant general disability and burden and with a psychosocial impairment that often persists despite pharmacotherapy. This indicates the need for effective and affordable adjunctive psychosocial interventions, tailored to the individual patient. Several psychotherapeutic techniques have tried to fill this gap, but which intervention is suitable for each patient remains unknown and it depends on the phase of the illness.

METHODS

The papers were located with searches in PubMed/MEDLINE through May 1st 2015 with a combination of key words. The review followed the recommendations of the Preferred Items for Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

RESULTS

The search returned 7,332 papers; after the deletion of duplicates, 6,124 remained and eventually 78 were included for the analysis. The literature supports the usefulness only of psychoeducation for the relapse prevention of mood episodes and only in a selected subgroup of patients at an early stage of the disease who have very good, if not complete remission, of the acute episode. Cognitive-behavioural therapy and interpersonal and social rhythms therapy could have some beneficial effect during the acute phase, but more data are needed. Mindfulness interventions could only decrease anxiety, while interventions to improve neurocognition seem to be rather ineffective. Family intervention seems to have benefits mainly for caregivers, but it is uncertain whether they have an effect on patient outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The current review suggests that the literature supports the usefulness only of specific psychosocial interventions targeting specific aspects of BD in selected subgroups of patients.

Recovery-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy for recent-onset bipolar disorder: randomised controlled pilot trial

BACKGROUND

Despite evidence for the effectiveness of structured psychological therapies for bipolar disorder no psychological interventions have been specifically designed to enhance personal recovery for individuals with recent-onset bipolar disorder.

AIMS

A pilot study to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a new intervention, recovery-focused cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), designed in collaboration with individuals with recent-onset bipolar disorder intended to improve clinical and personal recovery outcomes.

METHOD

A single, blind randomised controlled trial compared treatment as usual (TAU) with recovery-focused CBT plus TAU (n = 67).

RESULTS

Recruitment and follow-up rates within 10% of pre-planned targets to 12-month follow-up were achieved. An average of 14.15 h (s.d. = 4.21) of recovery-focused CBT were attended out of a potential maximum of 18 h. Compared with TAU, recovery-focused CBT significantly improved personal recovery up to 12-month follow-up (Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire mean score 310.87, 95% CI 75.00-546.74 (s.e. = 120.34), P = 0.010, d = 0.62) and increased time to any mood relapse during up to 15 months follow-up (χ2 = 7.64, P<0.006, estimated hazard ratio (HR) = 0.38, 95% CI 0.18-0.78). Groups did not differ with respect to medication adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Recovery-focused CBT seems promising with respect to feasibility and potential clinical effectiveness. Clinical- and cost-effectiveness now need to be reliably estimated in a definitive trial.

Unexplored areas of psychotherapy in bipolar disorder

Several psychological interventions-including group psychoeducation, family-focused psychoeducation, and interpersonal social-rhythm therapy-have demonstrated prophylactic efficacy as an adjunct to medication in bipolar disorders (BDs). The field of psychological interventions for BD has experienced impressive progress over the last 15 years. Certain unexplored areas, however, require further research in order to establish the full potential of psychological interventions for BD. Such research should focus, among other things, on cognitive impairment associated with BD, BD in the elderly, comorbid anxiety disorders and other comorbidities, the treatment of BD in pregnant women, and the improvement of patients' overall physical health.

Polarity index of psychological interventions in maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Although several adjunctive psychological interventions are effective in the maintenance of bipolar disorders (BD), no attempt has been made to classify them according to their ability to prevent manic versus depressive episodes. Our study aims to rank the adjunctive psychotherapies for the prophylaxis of BD by means of their polarity index (PI).

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy of a psychological intervention with a comparator in BD maintenance treatment in patients aged over 18 were systematically reviewed. Exclusion criteria were a small sample size, a study sample not exclusively composed of bipolar patients and the absence of a control group. PI is a novel metric indicating the relative antimanic versus antidepressive preventive efficacy of treatments. PI was retrieved by calculating the ratio of the number needed to treat (NNT) for prevention of depression and the NNT for prevention of mania. PI >1.0 indicates a relatively higher antimanic prophylactic efficacy and PI <1.0 a greater antidepressive efficacy.

RESULTS

A total of 9 studies were included. PI was 0.33, 0.63 and 0.89 for cognitive-behavioral therapy, 0.42 for family-focused therapy, 0.73 and 0.78 for psychoeducation, 1 for enhanced relapse prevention, 1.78 for caregiver group psychoeducation and 3.36 for brief technique-driven interventions. With regard to the PI for 1 cognitive-behavioral study, enhanced relapse prevention and brief technique-driven interventions may not be reliable since those trials were negative.

CONCLUSIONS

The PI provides a measure of how much depression-preventive or (hypo) mania-preventive an intervention is and may guide the choice of adjunctive psychotherapy in the context of individualized long-term treatment of BD.