Essential Information About Chronobiology and Chronotherapy for the Optimal Care of People With Bipolar Disorders: An Expert Consensus.

INTRODUCTION

Circadian dysfunction is involved in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorders (BD), and circadian-based interventions are gaining recognition in their management. Moreover, basic and epidemiologic research has generated findings inspiring circadian-informed self- and clinician-management strategies. Despite these gains, many Clinical Practice Guidelines and clinical training programs have not incorporated this evidence in their recommendations and curricula. This International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) Chronobiology and Chronotherapy Task Force position paper reports a Delphi-based expert consensus on what is essential for mental health clinicians to know about the chronobiology and chronotherapy of BD.

METHODS

An initial pool of statements was extracted from academic and grey literature, and experts could suggest additional statements. Statements were rated on a 5-point scale ('essential'; 'important'; 'don't know/depends'; 'unimportant'; 'should not be included'). Consensus was reached when statements were rated as essential or important by ≥ 80% of experts.

RESULTS

Thirty experts from 15 countries in Europe, North and South America, and the Asia Pacific participated (mean age of 55.3 years [SD = 11.8]; 40% female; 83% psychiatrists; mean clinical experience of 26 years [SD = 10.8]). Eight-hundred-and-thirty-seven statements were rated across three rounds. Consensus was reached on 342 statements spanning four major themes: basic circadian science; circadian health and disruption; chronobiology of BD; and six chronotherapies (e.g., protocols, outcomes, risks/contraindications).

CONCLUSIONS

An expert consensus was obtained on the essential information about the chronobiology and chronotherapy of BD, intended to help clinicians optimise their management of BD. Dissemination of this knowledge is expected to enhance the training and efficacy of clinicians.