BipoLife is a large research network involving university hospitals throughout Germany and funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.
The Bipolife A3 study is aimed at outpatients and inpatients aged 18 and older with bipolar disorder who have already experienced several episodes of illness and are currently in a manic, hypomanic, or depressive episode. The goal of the study is to determine whether a smartphone-based intervention with real-time data collection can prevent new episodes or detect them at the prodromal stage.
Study participants will initially receive outpatient psychiatric treatment according to the guidelines for the treatment of bipolar disorder. If a permanent stable condition can be achieved within 6 months, they are assigned to one of two treatment groups. In both variants, the subjects receive a smartphone via which information on sleep, communication, and activity patterns, as well as current complaints are collected. This information is partly self-reported by the participant, partly collected automatically. For example, the number of text messages and the frequency of calls (but not the content!) are recorded to make a statement about activity. The data provided is regularly checked by an independent observer. Additionally, in one group an automatic notification is sent to the treating psychiatrist if an individually determined symptom threshold is exceeded. The psychiatrist can then contact the study participant to discuss possible treatment options.
Study participants are followed for a total of 18 months. There will also be brief, regular diagnostic appointments to review current symptoms.
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