Understanding resilience to mood dysregulation

Bipolar disorder (BD) can be debilitating and recurrent, with high rates of relapse. Research on the psychological processes underlying mood dysregulation and BD has provided evidence for cognitive processes in the development and recurrence of mood episodes, particularly personally meaningful interpretations of experience (self-appraisals). In cognitive models, these processes are considered risk factors for relapse; less is known about the psychological processes underlying risk of developing BD in high risk groups, and less still about the factors that keep people well. Qualitative research focusing on recovery and staying well in BD has identified protective factors such as appraising mood as non-problematic, engaging in mood-balancing behaviours (‘going with the flow’ and allowing mood to pass), or making changes to circumstances and environment. Models of resilience exist for other mental health issues and are supported by research. This includes the Schematic Appraisals Model of Suicide, which postulates that positive self-appraisals relating to coping ability and social support promoted resilience. No psychological resilience model exists that is specific to mood dysregulation and focuses on therapeutic mechanisms of change such as cognitive appraisals and positive psychology (such as gratitude, hope). This model would need to take into account both high (activated) and low mood states.

This research will inform i) a psychological model of resilience appraisals in mood swings, integrating risk and protective factors and ii) further research on improving interventions for mood swings, with a positive focus on promoting resilience and buffering mental health difficulties.

This PhD project will involve:
• Systematic review of psychological resilience in mental health.
• Experimental study looking at whether those with higher psychological resilience are less affected by a mood induction.
• Cross-sectional and longitudinal explorations of whether psychological resilience buffers the impact of stressful life events and risk of BD to predict better mood and functioning.


Application process: Applications should be made via Lancaster University’s online application system https://www.postgraduate-applications.lancaster.ac.uk/. If you have any questions about this process, please contact our Postgraduate Office, on 01524 593439 or [Email Address Removed]

Due to the limited time between the closing date and the interview date, it is essential that you ensure references are submitted by the closing date.