The Evaluation of the Long-Term Effects of Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy on Sleep and Social Functioning in Patients with Bipolar Disorder

Interpersonal social rhythm therapy (Interpersonal social rhythm therapy, IPSRT) is a intervention which help patient control their daily life regularly, then improve patients’ interpersonal and social performance to prevent the relapse. Many previous studies indicated the effects of IPSRT on the moods in patients with bipolar disorders. However, these studies did not explore the relationship between social rhythm and the depressive and manic symptoms. Because of cultural differences and this treatment is rarely domestic research, therefore, this study will use interpersonal social rhythm therapy to treat patients with bipolar disorder and help improve their sleep quality and social function. In the first year, this study will explore the relationship among the social rhythm, biological rhythm, sleep quality, and the level of manic or depressive symptoms. The social rhythm metrics, interpersonal problem areas rating scale, social attainment scale, Hamilton depression rating scale, Bech-Rafaelsen Mania, and Pittsburgh sleep quality index will be included. To better understand their sleep patterns, sleep time and sleep efficiency during the waking and sleep period, and the parameters of biological rhythm will be recorded by using the actigraphy. Then the meta-analysis will be executed to find out the effective design of the IPSRT to maximize its therapeutic effect for patients with bipolar disorders. Finally, we will develop IPSRT and evaluate the effects of IPSRT for these patients compared to the control group. To continue tracking the long-term effect of IPSRT, the level of depressive and manic symptoms, and social function will be administered after six month, and one year. The SPSS 20.0 statistical software will be used to analyze the data. Consequently, this study will expect to improve nursing quality by developing the IPSRT for patients with bipolar disorders.