[P]eople in Cumbria who have Bipolar or Cyclothymic Disorder are being recruited for a new scientific study.
Researchers from the universities of Lancaster, Exeter and Northumbria are investigating a new treatment for bipolar mood swings. The study is being led by Dr Kim Wright, who is based at the University of Exeter.
The study is for adults with bipolar or cyclothymic disorder who find that their mood is quite variable even in between episodes of depression or mania/hypomania.
Previous research has shown that a talking treatment called dialectical behaviour therapy has been useful for mood swings in patients with other disorders – so it has now been adapted by Exeter researchers specifically for those with mood instability in bipolar disorder.
The therapy on offer (the ThrIVe-B programme) teaches people skills for responding to rapid mood shifts and the sort of everyday life events that can trigger mood changes.
“We hope that the findings of this study will help us plan for a much larger study to fully test how effective this therapy approach is,” said Kim Wright of the University of Exeter.
“What many people find is that having powerful shifts in mood can sometimes make it difficult to live life to the full, and can be a source of difficulties in relationships with others.”
Caroline Robinson, Community Engagement Officer from local mental health charity, Carlisle Eden Mind said, “Studies such as the ThrIVe-B programme are vital in the development of new therapies and treatments for mental ill health. We have been working with Lancaster University to host information sessions; ensuring all prospective participants are fully informed before deciding whether or not to take part.”
The ThrIVe-B programme will involve participants attending 15 weekly group meetings and eight fortnightly individual sessions, which can be delivered in person or by telephone, as well as continuing standard NHS care. The programme also includes a mood app which is designed to help users notice changes in mood and respond to them in helpful ways.
It is important to note that participants will have a 50% chance of being randomly assigned to the THrIVe-B therapy programme and a 50% chance of receiving their usual NHS care.
The study is taking place in two areas: Devon and Cumbria, supported by Devon Partnership NHS Trust and the University of Exeter, and Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Lancaster University.
For more information, email Debbie Duncan at [email protected] or telephone 01524 592291.
