The Effect of Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Mood Symptoms and Substance Cravings in Men with Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Background: Many patients with bipolar disorder also experience substance use disorder, along with frequent mood swings and substance cravings. It appears that traditional medication treatments may not be sufficient for these individuals. This study sought to examine how cognitive-behavioral group therapy could impact mood symptoms and substance cravings in male patients dealing with both bipolar disorder and substance abuse.

Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in the psychiatric departments of Sina Educational and Medical Center in Hamadan in 2023. Forty individuals were allocated to two distinct groups. The intervention group participated in eight sessions of group cognitive-behavioral therapy. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Hirschfeld Mood Disorder questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Craving Beliefs Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22.

Findings: Prior to the intervention, there were no significant differences between the intervention and control groups (P>0.05). Following the intervention, both groups experienced a decrease in mood symptoms and craving, with the intervention group showing a significantly greater reduction (P<0.001). However, one and three months after discharge, the patients in both groups experienced a gradual recurrence of mood symptoms and cravings. Despite this, patients in the intervention group consistently showed better outcomes than the control group at each time point (P<0.001).

Conclusion: The intervention group successfully managed mood symptoms and substance cravings in bipolar patients with a history of substance dependence. This non-pharmacological method is recommended for initial use as part of a comprehensive treatment course, followed by incorporation as an intermittent maintenance strategy.