Effects of psychotherapy on comorbid bipolar disorder and substance use disorder: A systematic review

Objectives This review aim was to examine whether psychotherapy is more or less effective in patients with SUD, compared to those without; whether there is a differential effect of a particular psychotherapy in patients with SUD. Methods A quantitative systematic review following the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews was used. Results Five studies of psychotherapy for BD and two studies of an integrated psychotherapy for comorbid BD and SUD were included in the review. Five studies provided a sub-analysis of the effect of SUD on overall outcomes with only one finding an overall detrimental effect. The results indicated equal, if not better outcomes for individuals with comorbid BD and SUD. Conclusion There was little evidence that interventions targeted at both BD and SUD may be more efficacious. Further research in to psychotherapeutic treatment for BD should include individuals with comorbid SUD, and analyse substance use as an outcome. Additionally, research into treatments specifically developed for these commonly comorbid disorders is indicated.