Interventi psicosociali nel disturbo bipolare: una revisione critica della letteratura recente

Abstract

Introduction

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a chronic illness that significantly impairs functioning and the quality of life of patients and their relatives. Pharmacological treatment with mood stabilizers, first-line treatment, is not always sufficient to completely relieve symptoms and restore functioning. In recent years, psychosocial interventions have been proposed as possible adjuncts to pharmacological treatments.

Materials and methods

We reviewed all trial data published between 1984 and 2000 regarding combined treatment of BD with psychosocial interventions and drug therapy.

Results

Psychosocial interventions specifically designed for BD are effective in preventing recurrences during follow-up. Each approach has a specific effect on the type of recurrences: individual psychoeducation is effective in preventing the recurrence of manic but not depressive episodes. Family-focused treatments and cognitive-behavioral therapy are more effective in reducing acute depressive symptoms, and group psychoeducation is effective for preventing both types of symptoms.