Addressing the unmet needs of women living with bipolar disorder

Although men and women are diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the same rate, there is research evidence to suggest that women with bipolar disorder experience unique challenges related to: ● Bipolar Disorder symptoms: Compared to men, women with bipolar disorder are more likely to experience depression, hypomania with mixed features (symptoms of depression), and rapid cycling mood episodes. They may also be more likely to experience thoughts of suicide. ● Hormonal events: Women with bipolar disorder often notice mood changes associated with the menstrual cycle, childbirth and the peripartum period, perimenopause and menopause. ● Pregnancy and childbirth: Women with bipolar disorder often want information about the possible impacts of pregnancy and childbirth on their relapse risk, the safety of psychiatric medications when pregnant and/or breastfeeding. ● Family planning and parenting: Women may worry about the likelihood that any future children develop bipolar disorder. They can face also stigma for wanting to be a parent with bipolar disorder, which can deter women from seeking support. ● Sexual functioning: Having more interest in sexual activity than usual can occur during hypomania and mania, and loss of interest in sexual activity is common during depression. These changes can negatively impact a woman’s relationships, sexual health, and self-esteem. Women with bipolar disorder may benefit from educational materials and treatments that take these unique experiences and challenges into consideration. However, because women’s health issues are often understudied, more research is needed before such interventions can be developed. Applicants are invited to design projects to understand and address the intersection between mood symptoms and sex and gender-specific factors.