Cognitive dysfunctions are present in Bipolar Disorder (BD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and may negatively impact psychosocial functioning. Further, comorbid BD and ADHD (BD-ADHD) is prevalent, associated with an earlier BD onset and a less favorable prognosis. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of research dedicated to the characterization and treatment of comorbid BD-ADHD.
This study aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a novel psychological group intervention (VECTOR) for adults with BD-ADHD. VECTOR integrates elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for ADHD and Functional Remediation (FR) for BD.
Eighty patients will be randomized (1:1) to receive either the VECTOR program (12 weekly group sessions) or treatment as usual (TAU).
It is expected that the VECTOR program will result in greater improvements in functioning and symptom reduction compared to TAU.
Fulfill DSM-5 criteria for BDI or BDII and ADHD using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 and the Conners' Adult ADHD Diagnostic Interview (CAARS)
Aged ≥18
Stable pharmacological treatment for at least the past three months.
Being in full or partial remission Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) ≤ 10, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) ≤ 14) at the time of the inclusion and assessment
Any comorbid psychiatric condition
Diagnosis of substance abuse disorder in the past 12 months
Intellectual disability (intelligence quotient < 70)
Having any Central Nervous System illness, independent of primary psychiatric diagnosis, hampering neuropsychological performance
Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron Research Institute
Lead sponsor
Hospital Clinic of Barcelona
Collaborator