Mood Lifters for Bipolar Disorder: A Feasibility Study Investigating a Peer-Led Adjunctive Intervention for Bipolar Disorder.

OBJECTIVE

Current treatment approaches for bipolar disorder work to improve symptoms while preventing relapse. However, quality of life (QoL) is often not addressed, and many individuals struggle to reach stability and recovery. This study aimed to investigate the capacity for adjunctive sources of care that promote evidence-based skills and peer support to improve functioning and QoL for individuals with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

Eighteen participants with bipolar disorder completed a 16-week, peer-led Mood Lifters for Bipolar Disorder (ML-BD) program as a part of this uncontrolled feasibility trial. Measures of feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness were collected at the end of the program. Symptoms of depression and mania, in addition to QoL, were measured before and after program completion.

RESULTS

ML-BD was considered generally feasible, acceptable, and appropriate by participants. Quantitative and qualitative data showed high satisfaction with ML-BD, although dropout rates and qualitative feedback were key areas for improvement. Exploratory analyses showed that participants experienced significant increases in QoL. Symptoms of depression and mania remained statistically similar from pre- to posttreatment.

CONCLUSIONS

ML-BD is an adjunctive source of care that is potentially feasible, acceptable, and appropriate for individuals with bipolar disorder. It may support symptom management and improve QoL. Future studies should optimize this program on the basis of stakeholder feedback and investigate its formal efficacy in broader samples.