To systematically review the evidence for the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder and examine the implications for mental health nursing practice.
Background
Bipolar disorder is associated with significant psychosocial impairment and high use of mental health services. Generally medication is effective in the treatment of acute episodes but there is increasing evidence that while a large majority of patients recover from these episodes of mania and/or depression, many do not achieve a functional recovery. In response a range of psychotherapies have either been adapted or developed.