The Role of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy in Bipolar Disorder

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
There is increasing support for the use of systematic psychological interventions in combination with pharmacotherapy in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BD). A “manualised” approach, such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), can be used to facilitate adjustment to the disorder, increase the acceptability of prescribed medications and reduce morbidity. This paper outlines psychosocial issues of relevance to individuals with BD and a model to engage individuals in therapy is described. A brief overview is given of some of the interventions that may help sufferers identify and control the acute symptoms of BD, reduce the risk of relapse and improve how they cope with the disorder and its treatment. The available outcome data on the use of CBT and the need for research are also noted.