Psychological factors in personal and clinical recovery in bipolar disorder

Background: Research into bipolar disorder (BD) has primarily focused upon clinical recovery (CR), i.e. symptom reduction, and overlooked personally meaningful outcomes emphasized by service users. Personal (PR) been a major focus in the formulation of mental health policies guidelines, yet, research factors influencing PR BD is its infancy. Methods: This study compared psychological associates concurrent CR, determined prospectively at 6 months. Results: 107 participants completed baseline assessments, whom 84% follow-up Controlling for potential confounders, multiple linear ordinal regression models showed that some underpinned both CR baseline: worse were associated with higher negative self-dispositional appraisals dysfunctional attitudes. Better PR, but ([hypo]mania related) adaptive coping. Additionally, better (but not CR) was risk taking predicted levels rumination. related), lower impulsivity, BAS processes. Limitations: Psychological measured follow up may have changed over time. Participants convenience sample. Conclusions: Understanding driving essential refining conceptual framework informing related interventions BD. The identified differences highlight importance more individualised, therapeutic approaches.