Principles of psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder

Psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder help prevent relapse and restore quality of life—they range from psychoeducation to psychological therapies provided by experienced clinicians with appropriate training and resources (usually psychologists). Individualise interventions to the patient—considerations include the type of mood episode (mania, hypomania or depression) and phase of treatment (acute, maintenance or prophylactic therapy). Other interventions (eg case management) may also be required.

Start psychosocial interventions during the first mood episode or after recovery from the episode, and use throughout treatment.

Also assess whether the patient requires other psychosocial interventions including:

• accommodation support
• assertive community treatment
• case management services
• cognitive remediation for cognitive deficits
• disability support
• education and training assistance
• social interventions to combat isolation, such as support groups and activity-based programs
• social skills training
• supported employment and education programs.