“What makes you well?” Supports of well-being in bipolar disorder. A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective Subjective experience of people living with bipolar disorder is gaining attention in the field of research. Improving well-being could be as important as symptom remission, but this constitutes a vague concept. This study aimed at exploring the boundaries and the determinants of the well-being of people living with bipolar disorder in a French context. Methods Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 patients by three professionals. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using the thematic analysis method. Results Various dimensions emerged as contributing to well-being: daily routines, connectedness, regaining a positive identity, and self-awareness for self-management. Conclusions In addition to those common to the general population, this study highlighted specific determinants of well-being: the construction of a positive identity through acceptance of the diagnosis, the importance of self-awareness and self-management. They are highly intertwined with those of personal recovery and could help caregivers design interventions that directly target these goals. This study aimed to identify specific components of well-being for people living with bipolar disorder. Understanding the determinants of well-being enable caregivers to design tailored interventions that directly target quality of life and help improve bipolar disorder outcomes.