Cognitive Therapy for Distressing Mood Swings in Young People at High Risk of Bipolar Disorder (CBT-BAR)

In this chapter, we set out the rationale and evidence for early detection and intervention for young people at high risk of developing bipolar disorder. Through the utilisation of the Bipolar At Risk (BAR) criteria, we consider the importance of offering tailored interventions for those with distressing mood swings who might otherwise go misdiagnosed leading to unhelpful treatments or no treatment at all. We describe a novel approach using a cognitive model for BAR, brought to life with illustrations of those with experience of help seeking for these difficulties. We conceptualise mood as living on a continuum and mood variation is something we all experience highlighting the key aspects of the cognitive model used in how distress arises and influences coping behaviours which can become unhelpful. We hope to demonstrate that this talking therapy can be used successfully in the reduction of distress and improvements in functioning by offering an approach which is collaborative and centred on the personal problems and goals the young person would like help with.