Course, outcomes, and psychosocial interventions for first-episode mania

The course of bipolar disorder tends to worsen over time, highlighting the importance of early intervention. Despite the recognized need for adjunctive psychosocial treatments in first-episode mania, very few studies have evaluated psychological interventions for this period of significant risk. In this empirical review, we evaluate existing research on first-episode bipolar disorder, compare this body of research to parallel studies of first-episode schizophrenia, and identify strategies for future research.

A comprehensive literature search of the MEDLINE and PsychINFO databases was conducted to identify studies of first-episode mania, as well as first-episode schizophrenia. Recovery and relapse rates were compared across studies.

In contrast to a number of studies of first-episode schizophrenia, the authors identified only seven independent programs assessing first-episode mania. Findings from these studies suggest that, while pharmacological treatment helps patients achieve recovery from acute episodes, it fails to bring patients to sustained remission. Early psychosocial intervention may be imperative in reducing residual symptoms, preventing recurrence of mood episodes, and improving psychosocial functioning. However, very few studies of psychosocial interventions for first-episode mania have been systematically studied.

Studies of first-episode mania indicate a gap between syndromal/symptomatic and functional recovery. Novel psychosocial interventions for first-episode mania may help bridge this gap, but require controlled study.