Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Youth with Bipolar Disorder
(DB1 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can assist young people with or at risk for bipolar disorder, a condition causing extreme mood swings. DBT teaches skills like mindfulness and emotion management through group skills training and individual sessions. The trial seeks to identify factors that might predict successful treatment outcomes. It suits English-speaking youth aged 13 to 23 with bipolar disorder or a family history of it, who have recently experienced self-harming behaviors or impulsivity. As an unphased trial, it provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and potentially benefit from innovative therapy approaches.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have Bipolar Disorder type I, you must be taking at least one mood-stabilizing medication to participate.
What prior data suggests that dialectical behavior therapy is safe for youth with bipolar disorder?
Research has shown that Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is generally safe for teenagers with bipolar disorder. This therapy has undergone extensive testing and is well-received. For instance, one study found that DBT reduced the number of suicide attempts among high-risk teens, indicating its effectiveness and manageability. Other research supports its success compared to standard treatments, without major side effects. DBT involves learning skills like mindfulness and managing emotions, which do not cause harm, making it a safe choice for young people with bipolar disorder or those at risk.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is unique because it combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices, offering a holistic approach to managing bipolar disorder in youth. Unlike standard medications like mood stabilizers or antipsychotics, which primarily target chemical imbalances, DBT focuses on helping individuals develop skills to manage intense emotions and reduce impulsive behaviors. Researchers are excited about DBT because it empowers young people to actively participate in their treatment and develop long-lasting coping strategies, potentially reducing the need for medication and minimizing side effects.
What evidence suggests that Dialectical Behavior Therapy might be an effective treatment for bipolar disorder?
Research has shown that dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can help treat symptoms of bipolar disorder. Studies have found that DBT helps manage mood swings and reduces emotional highs and lows. One study found that DBT lowered the number of suicide attempts among teenagers with bipolar disorder. Participants in DBT often attended more therapy sessions, demonstrating high engagement and improvement in managing manic symptoms and controlling emotions. This trial will evaluate DBT as a treatment for young people with or at risk for bipolar disorder, building on these promising findings.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Benjamin I Goldstein, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking youth aged 13 to nearly 24, who either have bipolar disorder and are on mood stabilizers or have a family history of it. They must be seeing a CAMH psychiatrist regularly and have a history of suicide attempts, self-harm, severe emotional distress, or impulsive behaviors.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) conducted over 1 year, divided into DBT skills training and individual therapy sessions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Lead Sponsor