Developing an online psychoeducation package for bipolar disorder

Medications are known to be effective for bipolar disorder but treatment non-adherence and psychosocial effects can impact adversely on long-term outcome. Psychoeducation may help address some of these issues.

This article describes the development of a novel online psychoeducation programme ( www.BeatingBipolar.org ) for patients with bipolar disorder.

The programme was developed in three stages--a literature review, development of a draft outline of the programme and focus groups with mental health professionals and service users.

Data highlighted the importance of presenting a supportive style of programme, realistic stories and positive role models within the programme and providing a variety of information delivery styles. Desired outcomes of the programme were an increased sense of control over bipolar disorder, reduced stigma and improved understanding for family and carers.

The iterative development process using focus groups with service users and mental health professionals provided important insights into users' needs and preferences as well as identifying valued outcomes. Interactive online psychoeducation materials benefit from a systematic design process which is informed by a range of viewpoints.