Welcome to the EPA 2022 Interactive Programme 

According to Kraepelinian distinction, bipolar disorders have a more favourable prognosis compared to Schizophrenia. This observation has been confirmed by more than a century of research and clinical studies. Nevertheless, it is not possible to identify a single type of outcome for bipolar disorders. Moreover, it is not uncommon for bipolar disorder to include high rate of recurrences, suicidal symptoms, persisting alterations of psychosocial functioning even during the euthymic phases. At last, despite the advances in pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, bipolar disorders often entail multiple relapses and impaired psychological recovery. The clinical prediction of the course and outcome of bipolar disorders continues to be challenging, despite the multiple research efforts. Specific diagnostic tests and biomarkers for bipolar disorders are still lacking, therefore psychiatric interview and examination provide the basis for outcome prediction. The clinical course of patients with bipolar disorders is influenced by many factors. Several clinical and preclinical factors have been specifically involved in the outcome prediction. The aim of this symposium is to summarize the main factors involved in predicting the course and outcome of bipolar disorder. Specifically, the role of temperament in modifying the clinical course and outcome is examined in this symposium. In addition, because child and adolescent onset may influence the long-term outcome of the disorder, this topic is also reviewed. Furthermore, the role of pharmacological treatment and its impact on clinical outcome is considered. Lastly, because neuropsychological deficits may have an impact of long-term outcome, implications for treatment strategies are discussed.