Health of People with Bipolar Disorder
Improving Sleep, Health and Well Being of People with Bipolar Disorder
What is the study about?
Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder? People who have Bipolar Disorder struggle with periods of depression (when they have a persistently sad or apathetic mood that is accompanied by symptoms like disturbed sleep, disturbed appetite, trouble concentrating, and feeling down on themselves) and mania (when they have a persistently euphoric or irritable mood along with symptoms like racing thoughts, decreased sleep, and poor judgment). It is not uncommon for people with bipolar disorder to struggle with problems falling asleep, problems staying asleep, not feeling refreshed when they wake, feeling sleepy during the day, sleeping too much at night, struggling to keep a steady sleep schedule, and/or not being able to fall asleep and wake at the times they would like. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been found to be effective in improving sleep, health and well being for many people. We are conducting a study to determine if this approach is also helpful for people who have Bipolar Disorder. Our hypothesis is that a cognitive behavioral treatment will improve sleep, health and quality of life as well as reduce the risk of future depression and mania.
Who can participate?
To take part you need to:
1. Have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and be receiving treatment from a psychiatrist
2. Be 18 years or older
3. Currently be feeling fairly stable in your mood (not depressed or manic)
If you are interested in participating, we will talk with you on the telephone to begin to determine whether this treatment may be helpful for you.
What will I do?
Before starting therapy we will ask you to complete an interview to learn more about you and your sleep. Therapy will last for 6 to 10 weekly hour-long sessions, depending on the treatment plan you and your therapist develop. Treatment will involve cognitive behavioral strategies. You will be working collaboratively with your therapist to implement strategies designed to address factors that will improve your sleep, health and quality of life. We will ask you to complete a short assessment interview after therapy is completed, and again 6 and 12 months after treatment is complete. You will be compensated for completing some portions of the study.
Where does the study take place?
Tolman Hall, Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley
We are located in the East Bay near El Cerrito, Emeryville, Albany, Richmond, Layfayette, Danville, Concord, Dublin, Walnut Creek and Oakland, and easily accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area.
How do I find out more?
Email us at bipolarsleepucb@gmail.com or call us at (510) 643-3797.