ABSTRACT
Background
This study examined the effects of Group Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) on suicide-related interpersonal constructs (perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness as proxy indicators of suicidal risk) and mood symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder.
Methods
In this quasi-experimental study, 36 patients with bipolar I or II disorder were recruited from psychiatric centres in Isfahan, Iran, and randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 18) or a control group (n = 18). The experimental group received 12 weekly group sessions of Group IPSRT in addition to standard pharmacotherapy, whereas the control group received pharmacotherapy alone. Suicidal ideation was assessed using the STS-IPTS, and mood symptoms were measured using the Persian version of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ). Assessments were conducted at pretest, post-test and follow-up. Data were analysed using repeated-measures ANOVA and MANOVA.
Results
Significant time × group interaction effects were found for suicidal ideation, F(1.53, 51.90) = 43.09, p < 0.001, η
2 = 0.56, and for perceived burdensomeness, F(2, 68) = 39.75, p < 0.001, η
2 = 0.54. Participants receiving IPSRT showed a marked reduction in perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness that was largely maintained at follow-up. For mood symptoms, a significant time × group interaction was found, F(1.68, 57.05) = 12.93, p < 0.001, η
2 = 0.28, with the strongest improvements observed in goal-directed behaviour.
Conclusions
Group IPSRT appears to be an effective adjunctive intervention for reducing suicidal ideation and improving selected mood symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder.