If so, you may be interested in participating in our research study, which is looking at caregiver stress and health. Participation in the study involves completing a survey asking about your knowledge of bipolar disorder, current coping methods, stress level, and health status. We will also evaluate your heart rate by applying two small sensors to your forearms that will be connected to a small computerized device; this will only take a few minutes and is non-invasive. There are 3 data collection sessions, each lasting 45 minutes to one hour, and spaced 6 months apart. In addition, you may also receive one of several interventions aimed at reducing your stress and improving your health. Each intervention lasts four weeks and is administered between the first and second surveys. The family member with bipolar disorder will not be asked to supply any information for this study. Study participants will be compensated for their time.
For more information or to enroll in the study, please call the Family Caregiver Study at 216- 368-8848.