scholarly journals Web-Based Self-Management Programs for Bipolar Disorder: Insights From the Online, Recovery-Oriented Bipolar Individualised Tool Project

10.2196/11160 ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 20 (10) ◽  
pp. e11160 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn Fletcher ◽  
Fiona Foley ◽  
Greg Murray
Keyword(s):  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Online Recovery

scholarly journals Web-Based Self-Management Programs for Bipolar Disorder: Insights From the Online, Recovery-Oriented Bipolar Individualised Tool Project (Preprint)

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn Fletcher ◽  
Fiona Foley ◽  
Greg Murray
Keyword(s):  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Lived Experience ◽  
Chronically Ill ◽  
Ethical Framework ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Management Interventions ◽  
Online Recovery

BACKGROUND Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex, relapsing mood disorder characterized by considerable morbidity and mortality. Web-based self-management interventions provide marked opportunities for several chronic mental health conditions. However, Web-based self-management programs targeting BD are underrepresented compared with programs targeting other psychiatric conditions. OBJECTIVE This paper aims at facilitating future research in the area of self-management of BD and draws insights from the development of one such intervention—the Online, Recovery-Oriented Bipolar Individualised Tool (ORBIT)—that is aimed at improving the quality of life of people with BD. METHODS We have discussed the opportunities and challenges in developing an engaging, evidence-based, safe intervention within the context of the following three nested domains: (1) intervention development; (2) scientific testing of the intervention; and (3) ethical framework including risk management. RESULTS We gained the following insights across the three abovementioned overlapping domains: Web-based interventions can be optimized through (1) codesign with consumers with lived experience to ensure relevance and appropriateness to the target audience; (2) novel content development processes that iteratively combine evidence-based information with lived experience perspectives, capitalizing on multimedia (eg, videos) that the digital health space provides; and (3) incorporating Web-based communities to connect end users and promote constructive engagement by access to a Web-based coach. CONCLUSIONS Self-management is effective in BD, even for those on the more severe end of the spectrum. While there are challenges to be aware of, guided self-management programs, such as those offered by the ORBIT project, which are specifically developed for Web-based delivery provide highly accessible, engaging, and potentially provocative treatments for chronically ill populations who may otherwise have never engaged with treatment. Key questions about engagement, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness will be answered by the ORBIT project over the next 18 months.

scholarly journals Correction: Combined Use of Web-Based and In-Person Education on Ill Health Self-management Skills in Adults With Bipolar Disorder: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study

10.2196/33506 ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (9) ◽  
pp. e33506
Author(s):  
Anna Hatzioannou ◽  
Andreas Chatzittofis ◽  
Virginia Sunday Koutroubas ◽  
Evridiki Papastavrou ◽  
Maria Karanikola
Keyword(s):  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Mixed Methods Study ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Management Skills ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Combined Use

scholarly journals Digital Health Literacy in Bipolar Disorder: International Web-Based Survey (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emma Morton ◽  
Kendall Ho ◽  
Steven J Barnes ◽  
Erin E Michalak
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Health Literacy ◽  
Technology Use ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Health Resources ◽  
Postgraduate Education ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Web Based

BACKGROUND Web-based resources can support people with bipolar disorder (BD) to improve their knowledge and self-management. However, publicly available resources are heterogeneous in terms of their quality and ease of use. Characterizing digital health literacy (the skillset that enable people to navigate and make use of health information in a web-based context) in BD will support the development of educational resources. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop understanding of digital health literacy and its predictors in people with BD. METHODS A web-based survey was used to explore self-reported digital health literacy (as measured by the e-Health Literacy Scale [eHEALS]) in people with BD. Multiple regression analysis was used to evaluate potential predictors, including demographic/clinical characteristics and technology use. RESULTS A total of 919 respondents (77.9% female; mean age 36.9 years) completed the survey. Older age (β=0.09; <i>P</i>=.01), postgraduate education (β=0.11; <i>P</i>=.01), and current use of self-management apps related to BD (β=0.13; <i>P</i>&lt;.001) were associated with higher eHEALS ratings. CONCLUSIONS Levels of self-reported digital health literacy were comparable or higher than other studies in the general population and specific physical/mental health conditions. However, individuals with BD who are younger, have completed less education, or are less familiar with mental health apps may require extra support to safely and productively navigate web-based health resources. Relevant educational initiatives are discussed. Future studies should evaluate skill development interventions for less digitally literate groups.

Next Generation of Self-Management Education: Web-based Bipolar Disorder Program

2007 ◽  
Vol 41 (11) ◽  
pp. 903-909 ◽  
Author(s):  
Judith Proudfoot ◽  
Gordon Parker ◽  
Matthew Hyett ◽  
Vijaya Manicavasagar ◽  
Meg Smith ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Education Program ◽  
Health Professionals ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Management Training ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
The Web

Objective: Education and self-management training assist patients with bipolar disorder to take control of their condition and to reduce disability, but the timeliness and availability of the education are important. A free Web-based bipolar education program has been recently developed to provide accessible evidence-based information for patients, carers and health professionals. The present paper describes the nine-module program, reports usage data and user profiles, and overviews the aims and methodology of a randomized controlled trial to measure its impact. Methods: Customized Web reports were developed to measure usage of the Web-based program, and to profile its users on a month-by-month basis. Data on the percentage of completers of each module were also collected. A randomized controlled trial evaluating the program in people with newly diagnosed bipolar disorder was also commenced. Results: More than 8000 visitors used the online program in its first 6 months. Users were predominantly female, of a broad cross-section of ages, 43.5% with bipolar disorder, and with the remainder describing themselves as health professionals, carers/family/friends of a person with bipolar disorder or members of the general public. The majority (76%) completed the sessions they commenced. Conclusions: The Web-based education program is attracting a steady stream of users and is exhibiting good completion rates. This preliminary support for the program's utility requires validation from our randomized controlled trial before definite conclusions can be drawn.

scholarly journals Supporting Self-Management in Bipolar Disorder: Mixed-Methods Knowledge Translation Study (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Erin E Michalak ◽  
Emma Morton ◽  
Steven J Barnes ◽  
Rachelle Hole ◽  
Greg Murray ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Chronic Disease ◽  
Knowledge Translation ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Health Technologies

BACKGROUND Self-management is increasingly recognized as an important method through which individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) may cope with symptoms and improve quality of life. Digital health technologies have strong potential as a method to support the application of evidence-informed self-management strategies in BD. Little is known, however, about how to most effectively maximize user engagement with digital platforms. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were (1) to create an innovative Web-based Bipolar Wellness Centre, (2) to conduct a mixed-methods (ie, quantitative and qualitative) evaluation to assess the impact of different sorts of engagement (ie, knowledge translation [KT]), and (3) to support engagement with the self-management information in the Bipolar Wellness Centre. METHODS The project was implemented in 2 phases. In phase 1, community-based participatory research and user-centered design methods were used to develop a website (Bipolar Wellness Centre) housing evidence-informed tools and strategies for self-management of BD. In phase 2, a mixed-methods evaluation was conducted to explore the potential impact of 4 KT strategies (Web-based webinars, Web-based videos, Web-based one-to-one Living Library peer support, and in-person workshops). Quantitative assessments occurred at 2 time points—preintervention and 3 weeks postintervention. Purposive sampling was used to recruit a subsample of participants for the qualitative interviews, ensuring each KT modality was represented, and interviews occurred approximately 3 weeks postintervention. RESULTS A total of 94 participants were included in the quantitative analysis. Responses to evaluative questions about engagement were broadly positive. When averaged across the 4 KT strategies, significant improvements were observed on the Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire (F1,77=5.887; P=.02) and Quality of Life in Bipolar Disorder (F1,77=8.212; P=.005). Nonsignificant improvements in positive affect and negative affect were also observed. The sole difference that emerged between KT strategies related to the Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy measure, which decreased after participation in the webinar and video arms but increased after the Living Library and workshop arms. A subsample of 43 participants was included in the qualitative analyses, with the majority of participants describing positive experiences with the 4 KT strategies; peer contact was emphasized as a benefit across all strategies. Infrequent negative experiences were reported in relation to the webinar and video strategies, and included technical difficulties, the academic tone of webinars, and feeling unable to relate to the actor in the videos. CONCLUSIONS This study adds incremental evidence to a growing literature that suggests digital health technologies can provide effective support for self-management for people with BD. The finding that KT strategies could differentially impact chronic disease self-efficacy (hypothesized as being a product of differences in degree of peer contact) warrants further exploration. Implications of the findings for the development of evidence-informed apps for BD are discussed in this paper.

scholarly journals Experiences of a Web-Based Quality of Life Self-Monitoring Tool for Individuals With Bipolar Disorder: A Qualitative Exploration (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emma Morton ◽  
Rachelle Hole ◽  
Greg Murray ◽  
Simone Buzwell ◽  
Erin Michalak
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Self Assessment ◽  
Self Monitoring ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Qualitative Exploration

BACKGROUND Self-monitoring of symptoms is a cornerstone of psychological interventions in bipolar disorder (BD), but individuals with lived experience also value tracking holistic outcomes, such as quality of life (QoL). Importantly, self-monitoring is not always experienced positively by people with BD and may have lower than expected rates of engagement. Therefore, before progressing into QoL tracking tools, it is important to explore user perspectives to identify possible risks and benefits, optimal methods to support engagement, and possible avenues to integrate QoL self-monitoring practices into clinical work. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to conduct a qualitative exploration of how individuals with BD engaged with a Web-based version of a BD-specific QoL self-monitoring instrument, the QoL tool. METHODS A total of 43 individuals with BD engaged with a self-management intervention with an optional Web-based QoL self-assessment tool as part of an overarching mixed method study. Individuals were later interviewed about personal experiences of engagement with the intervention, including experiences of gauging their own QoL. A thematic analysis was used to identify salient aspects of the experience of QoL self-monitoring in BD. RESULTS In total, 4 categories describing people’s experiences of QoL self-monitoring were identified: (1) breadth of QoL monitoring, (2) highlighting the positive, (3) connecting self-monitoring to action, and (4) self-directed patterns of use. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this research generate novel insights into ways in which individuals with BD experience the Web-based QoL self-assessment tool. The value of tracking the breadth of domains was an overarching aspect, facilitating the identification of both areas of strength and life domains in need of intervention. Importantly, monitoring QoL appeared to have an inherently therapeutic quality, through validating flourishing areas and reinforcing self-management efforts. This contrasts the evidence suggesting that symptom tracking may be distressing because of its focus on negative experiences and positions QoL as a valuable adjunctive target of observation in BD. Flexibility and personalization of use of the QoL tool were key to engagement, informing considerations for health care providers wishing to support self-monitoring and future research into Web- or mobile phone–based apps.

scholarly journals Experiences of a Web-Based Quality of Life Self-Monitoring Tool for Individuals With Bipolar Disorder: A Qualitative Exploration

10.2196/16121 ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (12) ◽  
pp. e16121 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emma Morton ◽  
Rachelle Hole ◽  
Greg Murray ◽  
Simone Buzwell ◽  
Erin Michalak
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Self Assessment ◽  
Self Monitoring ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Qualitative Exploration

Background Self-monitoring of symptoms is a cornerstone of psychological interventions in bipolar disorder (BD), but individuals with lived experience also value tracking holistic outcomes, such as quality of life (QoL). Importantly, self-monitoring is not always experienced positively by people with BD and may have lower than expected rates of engagement. Therefore, before progressing into QoL tracking tools, it is important to explore user perspectives to identify possible risks and benefits, optimal methods to support engagement, and possible avenues to integrate QoL self-monitoring practices into clinical work. Objective This study aimed to conduct a qualitative exploration of how individuals with BD engaged with a Web-based version of a BD-specific QoL self-monitoring instrument, the QoL tool. Methods A total of 43 individuals with BD engaged with a self-management intervention with an optional Web-based QoL self-assessment tool as part of an overarching mixed method study. Individuals were later interviewed about personal experiences of engagement with the intervention, including experiences of gauging their own QoL. A thematic analysis was used to identify salient aspects of the experience of QoL self-monitoring in BD. Results In total, 4 categories describing people’s experiences of QoL self-monitoring were identified: (1) breadth of QoL monitoring, (2) highlighting the positive, (3) connecting self-monitoring to action, and (4) self-directed patterns of use. Conclusions The findings of this research generate novel insights into ways in which individuals with BD experience the Web-based QoL self-assessment tool. The value of tracking the breadth of domains was an overarching aspect, facilitating the identification of both areas of strength and life domains in need of intervention. Importantly, monitoring QoL appeared to have an inherently therapeutic quality, through validating flourishing areas and reinforcing self-management efforts. This contrasts the evidence suggesting that symptom tracking may be distressing because of its focus on negative experiences and positions QoL as a valuable adjunctive target of observation in BD. Flexibility and personalization of use of the QoL tool were key to engagement, informing considerations for health care providers wishing to support self-monitoring and future research into Web- or mobile phone–based apps.

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