Understanding risk behaviours in bipolar disorder

During a manic episode there can be increased goal-directed activities (either socially, vocationally, and sexually) and involvement in pleasurable activities (excessive spending, sexual indiscretions, substance use) that can lead to poor outcomes for both the individual with bipolar disorder but also close others. There can also be heightened risk of self-harm and suicide, particularly during mixed episodes. However, we do not have a good understanding of those with a lived experience, their caregivers and supporters, and clinicians’ perspectives on risks associated with bipolar disorder. Also, examination of risk is often specific to self-harm and suicide rather than more broadly about other kinds of risk. We also do not have an adequate measure of the diverse risks associated with the disorder. This research program is part of the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Bipolar Disorder (CORE-BD) led by Prof Sue Cotton. Other supervisors will include Dr Mel Hasty (Senior Research Fellow, Clinical Psychologist and Executive Officer of CORE-BD), Dr Kate Filia (Senior Research Fellow, Orygen, expertise in social inclusion), and Dr Emma Morton (Senior Lecturer, Clinical Psychologist, expertise in bipolar disorder). There are a range of potential projects that students could undertake in this area.