Managing bipolar moods without medication: a qualitative investigation

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Mental Health

Background:

• Many individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BD) explore non-medication management strategies.
• The lived experiences and specific processes involved in managing bipolar moods without medication are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the processes individuals with Bipolar Disorder (BD) use to manage their moods without medication.
• To develop a model of self-perceived mood management strategies in non-medicated BD patients.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with ten individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BD) who do not use medication.
• Grounded theory methodology was employed to analyze interview data and construct a theoretical model.

Main Results:

• Participants engaged in continuous evaluation of their mood management strategies.
• Some individuals chose not to manage elevated moods, perceiving benefits.
• Self-perception, the meaning attributed to bipolar moods, and social feedback influenced participants' intentions and actions.

Conclusions:

• Existing models of non-adherence may oversimplify the experiences of individuals managing Bipolar Disorder (BD) without medication.
• Further research should identify predictors of successful non-medication mood management.
• Healthcare professionals should consider non-medication approaches and long-term goals to improve engagement with patients managing BD without medication.