Researchers at King’s College London are currently recruiting people between the ages of 18-65, who have a diagnosis of bipolar, who are not currently severely unwell, and who do not have recent history of alcohol or substance abuse.
Anyone can apply, although the researchers are particularly hoping to find people who live in or near Oxford, Birmingham or Newcastle.
Participants will be given a £60 'thank you' payment.
Get involved
The CRiB2 Study
Activities such as setting tasks, managing time, and planning ahead require specific cognitive skills. These skills can be impaired during periods of illness, affecting the ability to work, study and engage in daily life.
Many individuals with bipolar face difficulties when it comes to everyday tasks, such as reading, following long conversations, or recalling the storyline of a boxset. These challenges often arise during the recovery period after a severe episode.
Cognitive Remediation Therapy
Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) is a therapeutic process that focuses on enhancing cognition, making it easier to concentrate, remember chores, and keep up with life.
Therapy sessions typically last one hour and occur 2-3 times a week. Participants receiving therapy will be assigned a therapist and work with them in 1-1 sessions.
During CRT, participants use specialised software to train their minds. With the guidance of a therapist, they learn to remember important things, improve concentration, and make better choices. The skills acquired during therapy can be applied to real-life situations.
Promising results
The research results so far have been promising. People who have had CRT have shown improvements in their daily functioning and thinking skills, and these gains often persist three months after therapy has ended.
CRT can also help individuals gain a deeper understanding of bipolar and its implications. By taking part in this therapy, people can enhance their cognitive skills, improving their quality of life and their ability to navigate the challenges of bipolar.
One story
One participant who lives with bipolar, Sam Swidzinski, explains why he found the therapy helpful:
'Even after I became stable for a good couple of years, I still found it really difficult to thrive in life. Years of bipolar highs and lows led me to struggle to concentrate or remember information. I was unemployed and struggled to look after myself.
'Fortunately, I was able to access a form of therapy called Cognitive Remediation, which helped me to regain my functioning. It helped me to plan better, evaluate my performance and improve. It also helped me know my strengths and weaknesses and find direction in life’
Find out more
Please find details about the study and how to enrol here
Or, you can register your interest by emailing:
Last updated: 3 May 2024