Dimensions underlying outcome criteria in bipolar I disorder

The findings indicate that outcome criteria in bipolar I disorder can be grouped into three distinct dimensions reflecting (1) subjective appraisals, (2) functioning/disability and (3) manic/psychotic symptoms. While measurement of psychotic/manic symptoms has become a matter of course, until now few studies have assessed disability or subjective appraisal in bipolar illness. Therefore important aspects of bipolar illness might be overseen. For a better understanding, we suggest that longitudinal studies of bipolar I disorders should consider all three dimensions of outcome and measure them separately.