Effectiveness of six-week psychoeducation program on adherence of patients with bipolar affective disorder

Objectives: This study examined the effectiveness of a six week psychoeducation program on the adherence of patients with Bipolar Affective Disorder.

Method: An experimental study was conducted at a mood disorder outpatient clinic in Zonguldak, Turkiye. Participants were randomly assigned to either intervention (n=35) or control groups (n=36). Both groups were given pre-tests and post-tests to measure their adherence. In the psychoeducation group, the psychoeducation program was provided for 2 h/week for six weeks. In the control group, standard care and information were provided.

Results: After six weeks, the psychoeducation program significantly improved patients' adherence. The treatment adherence rate of the patients in the intervention group increased from 40.0% (14 patients on pre-test), to 86.7% (26 patients on post-test). Meanwhile, the treatment adherence rate of the control group was 38.9% (14 patients) for the pre-test, and 24.2% (8 patients) for the post-test.

Conclusion: This controlled trial study demonstrated that a six-week psychoeducation program can be a useful intervention to improve adherence in patients undergoing bipolar affective disorder rehabilitation. More comprehensive mental health outcomes need to be undertaken. Further studies exploring a longer term follow-up are also required.