Harnessing the potential of community-based participatory research approaches in bipolar disorder

The quantity and sophistication of research on bipolar disorder (BD) has expanded rapidly in the past decade. Despite progress, the field faces challenges in improving individuals' quality of life (QoL) and symptom outcomes, adapting treatments for marginalized communities, and disseminating research insights into real-world practice. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) approaches have helped address similar gaps in other health conditions. This Commentary aims to improve awareness of the many benefits of CBPR in BD research. The Commentary, itself a venture in CBPR, is the product of a collaboration between the International Society of Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) Community Engagement Taskforce and members of the Collaborative RESearch Team to study Psychosocial issues in Bipolar Disorder (CREST.BD).