The process of recovery from bipolar I disorder: a qualitative analysis of personal accounts in relation to an integrative cognitive model.
OBJECTIVE
This study explored the process of recovery from bipolar I disorder from a phenomenological and cognitive perspective.


METHODS
A semi-structured interview was coded and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.


METHODS
Eleven individuals over the age of 30 with a history of bipolar disorder were selected on the basis of having remained free from relapse, and without hospitalization for at least 2 years, as confirmed by a diagnostic interview (Standardised Interview for DSM-IV; SCID-I). This arbitrary and equivocal criterion for 'recovery' provided an objective method of defining the sample for the study.


RESULTS
The analysis revealed two overarching themes formed from four themes each. Ambivalent approaches referred to approaches that participants felt had both positive and negative consequences: avoidance of mania, taking medication, prior illness versus current wellness, and sense of identity following diagnosis. Helpful approaches referred to approaches that were seen as universally helpful: understanding, life-style fundamentals, social support and companionship, and social change.


CONCLUSIONS
These themes were then interpreted in the light of the existing literature and an integrative cognitive model of bipolar disorder. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Mansell
Warren
W
School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, UK. warren.mansell@manchester.ac.uk
Powell
Seth
S
Pedley
Rebecca
R
Thomas
Nia
N
Jones
Sarah Amelia
SA
D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000628:therapy*; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D003289:Convalescence; D019033:Delivery of Health Care, Integrated; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome