Health, diet and exercise needs of people living with bipolar disorder in Australia

Despite having higher rates of medical co-morbidities, few studies have explored the needs of people living with bipolar disorder in Australia in relation to health, diet and exercise. This study aimed to assess health, diet and exercise needs of people living with bipolar disorder in Australia. A large survey was co-designed with consumer group, Bipolar Australia. Participants ( N = 366) were Australians who elected to take part in a large online survey that asked open-ended questions relating to health, diet and exercise. Responses were analysed using content-analysis using an exploratory mixed method design. The most endorsed response for support included increased funding support, whilst the most endorsed barrier to health was symptoms of bipolar disorder. Other endorsed areas of need included increased access to exercise facilities and allied health support, such as dieticians. Satisfaction rates for current health, diet and exercise activity were lower for those who reported a co-morbid physical health condition with high levels of daily life interference. Those with co-occurring mental health conditions were also more likely to report mental health symptoms as a barrier. People living with bipolar disorder have unique health, diet and exercise needs due to the nature of their condition and the impact of co-occurring physical health conditions should also be considered in lifestyle-based interventions. More research is needed to understand current levels of engagement in exercise for people living with bipolar disorder and how this can best be supported, along with improved dietary support.