Positive beliefs about mania held by individuals with bipolar disorder: A systematic review

To conduct a systematic review of the literature regarding positive beliefs about (hypo)mania held by individuals with bipolar disorder.

A systematic search of five electronic databases (PsychINFO, PsychARTICLES, MEDLINE, CINAHL and Web of Science) was carried out, using predefined search terms related to bipolar disorder, (hypo)mania and positive beliefs. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were appraised using the mixed-methods appraisal tool. Findings were synthesised using thematic synthesis methodology due to the predominantly qualitative designs of the studies.

Five analytical themes were identified: (1) enjoyable feelings of (hypo)mania, (2) vitality of (hypo)mania, (3) enhanced relationship with self and others, (4) advanced ability and achievement and (5) creativity.

This is the first review of perceived positive beliefs about (hypo)mania held by people with bipolar disorder. The findings highlight the existence of positive beliefs and provide valuable insights into the nature of such perceptions. Further research is needed to explore positive beliefs about (hypo)mania held not only by the people with bipolar disorder themselves but also by their wider network, such as family members, employers, clinicians and wider society. A better understanding of the impact and clinical implications of such beliefs is needed.