A compassionate-focused intervention for older people with bipolar
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A brief compassionate-focused intervention for older people with bipolar disorder
IRAS ID
348011
Contact name
Imogen Young
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Manchester
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Growing older can be a difficult process, with a lot of life changes. As such, older adults may face mental health difficulties in later life. It is important that research looks into the experiences of this age group. Evidence suggests that bipolar disorder (BD) looks different in later life. However, there has been less research looking into older people’s experiences of living with BD, and the best psychological treatment for it. It is thought that older people living with BD have more time to think negatively about the past. They may feel guilt and shame when looking back on their lives. As such, it is important that research focuses on treatments that are adapted to older people’s experiences of living with BD.
The study will run a short, 9-session therapy for older people with BD. The sessions will focus on building compassion to help with negative thinking about the past. The study will be promoted through the NHS and charities. Adults who are aged 60 years and above, have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder I or II, and have a nominated healthcare professional (i.e. GP or Care Coordinator) will be eligible to take part. We will ask individuals to answer some questionnaires about their BD and negative thinking. Six individuals will be invited to take part in the study. After the therapy, individuals will be asked to complete the same questionnaires. The study can help us understand whether it is possible to carry out this type of therapy. It may also help us understand if there are any clinical benefits for older people with BD. This is useful as it is an under-researched area, and so can potentially inform healthcare services on how best to support this age group with BD.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0117
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion