Psychosocial Intervention Programs for Family Members of Individuals with Bipolar Disorder: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Bipolar disorder can create a dynamic that complexly affects not only the individual's life but also the entire family. Research includes a wide range of intervention strategies, from cognitive behavioral therapy to psychoeducational programs. This review aims to analyze the results of psychosocial intervention programs developed for the family members of individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Studies related to the topic conducted in Türkiye and worldwide, accessible in full text, have been reviewed using the Pubmed and Scopus databases, and the results have been compiled considering the objectives of the studies. As a result of the literature review, 14 articles were included in the review. In 4 studies, Family-Focused Therapy was applied, while psychoeducation aimed at families was observed in 10 studies. The applied psychoeducation programs consist of six training sessions aimed at families, focusing on disease information and caregiving burden. In a study, psychoeducation aimed at increasing problem-solving skills was provided to individuals with a partner who has bipolar disorder and who have experienced abuse. The results of the study examined the effects of the interventions on families' caregiving burden, their level of knowledge about the illness, self-esteem, quality of life, internalized stigma, and individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The studies included in the review show positive results highlighting the beneficial effects of family-based psychosocial interventions for families of individuals with bipolar disorder