User perspectives on long-term remote active electronic self-monitoring of mood symptoms in bipolar spectrum disorders

Gordon-Smith, Katherine, Saunders, Kate E.A., Morton, Thomas, Savage, Julia, South, Matthew, Geddes, John, Craddock, Nick ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2171-0610, Jones, Ian ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5821-5889 and Jones, Lisa 2023. User perspectives on long-term remote active electronic self-monitoring of mood symptoms in bipolar spectrum disorders. Journal of Affective Disorders 324 , pp. 325-333. 10.1016/j.jad.2022.12.090

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Abstract

Background User feedback is crucial in the development of electronic self-monitoring tools for bipolar spectrum disorders (BSD). Previous studies have examined user experiences in small samples self-monitoring over relatively short time periods. We aimed to explore the experiences of a large sample of individuals with BSD engaged in long-term remote active electronic self-monitoring. Methods An online survey, containing closed and open questions, was sent to participants with BSD enrolled on the Bipolar Disorder Research Network (BDRN) True Colours mood-monitoring system. Questions related to experiences of using True Colours, including viewing mood graphs, and sharing data with healthcare professionals (HCPs) and/or family/friends. Results Response rate was 62.7 % (n = 362). 88.4 % reported finding using True Colours helpful. Commonly reported benefits were having a visual record of mood changes, patterns/triggers and identifying early warning signs. Limitations included questions not being comprehensive or revealing anything new. One third had shared their graphs, with 89.9 % finding it helpful to share with HCPs and 78.7 % helpful to share with family/friends. Perceived benefits included aiding communication and limitations included lack of interest/understanding from others. Limitations Responder bias may be present. Findings may not be generalisable to all research cohorts. Conclusions The majority of participants valued long-term self-monitoring. Personalisation and ease of use were important. A potential challenge is continued use when mood is long-term stable, highlighting the need for measures to be sensitive to small changes. Sharing self-monitoring data with HCPs may enhance communication of the lived experience of those with BSD. Future research should examine HCPs' perspectives.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Medicine
Publisher:	Elsevier
ISSN:	0165-0327
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	16 March 2023
Date of Acceptance:	22 December 2022
Last Modified:	03 May 2023 20:29
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/157772

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