Abstract
ObjectiveAnxiety is prominent for many people living with bipolar disorder, yet the benefit of psychological interventions in treating this co-morbidity has been minimally explored and few studies have been conducted in a group format. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a transdiagnostic cognitive behaviour therapy group anxiety programme (CBTA-BD) for people living with bipolar disorder.MethodsParticipants were recruited to take part in a 9-week group therapy programme designed to treat anxiety in bipolar disorder using cognitive behaviour therapy. They were assessed by structured interview (SCID-5 RV) to confirm the diagnosis of bipolar disorder and assessed for anxiety disorders. Self-report questionnaires—DASS (depression, anxiety, stress), ASRM (mania), STAI (state and trait anxiety) and Brief QOL.BD (quality of life) pre- and post-treatment were administered.ResultsFourteen participants enrolled in the programme, with 10 participants (5 male; 5 female) completing the follow-up assessments. Two groups (one during working hours, the other outside working hours) were conducted. The programme appeared acceptable and feasible with a mean of 6.9 (77%) sessions attended, though five (50%) participants completed less than 3 weeks homework.ConclusionThe transdiagnostic cognitive behaviour therapy group anxiety programme (CBTA-BD) proved feasible and acceptable for participants; however, homework compliance was poor. A larger randomised pilot study is needed to assess the benefits of the intervention on symptom measures and address homework adherence, possibly through providing support between sessions or tailoring it more specifically to participant needs.
Highlights
Bipolar disorder affects approximately 1% of the population in Australia and around the world [1] and is defined by the presence of mania or hypomania symptoms along with periods of depression [2]
In addition, anxiety disorders are highly comorbid with bipolar disorder with about 40% meeting the diagnostic criteria at any time [6], and about 35% of people with bipolar disorder meet the criteria for a co-occurring anxiety disorder during euthymia [7]
[13], very little is known about the efficacy of psychological interventions in treating co-occurring anxiety for people living with bipolar disorder, and few, if any, studies have been conducted in a group format
Summary
Participants were recruited to take part in a 9-week group therapy programme designed to treat anxiety in bipolar disorder using cognitive behaviour therapy. They were assessed by structured interview (SCID-5 RV) to confirm the diagnosis of bipolar disorder and assessed for anxiety disorders. Self-report questionnaires—DASS (depression, anxiety, stress), ASRM (mania), STAI (state and trait anxiety) and Brief QOL.BD (quality of life) pre- and post-treatment were administered
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