Psychosocial Functioning and Quality of Life in Remitted Males with Dual Diagnosis of Bipolar Affective Disorder and Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study from South India

Abstract

Abstract Background: Studies on psychosocial functioning and quality of life (QOL) of Bipolar Affective disorder (BPAD) patients with comorbid alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS), during BPAD remission and sobriety from alcohol, are sparse. Objectives: To assess the psychosocial functioning, QOL and associated factors in remitted males with dual diagnosis of BPAD and ADS. Methods: 132 males aged 18–60 years on psychiatry outpatient department follow-up from a tertiary care center, having BPAD– Currently in remission (F31.7) and co-morbid ADS (F10.2) according to the International classification of mental and behavioral disorders, Diagnostic Criteria for Research (ICD-10 DCR) were enrolled. Semi-structured proforma, Kuppuswamy’s Socioeconomic status Scale, Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST), and WHO QOL– BREF scales were administered. Statistical analysis was performed using R software (EZR). Results: 68.94% had moderate impairment in psychosocial functioning (FAST score 21–40). The median WHO QOL-BREF total score was 72 (interquartile range 68, 77) – lowest scores were for social relationships and psychological domain. Age (P = 0.014), residential area (P = 0.031), age of onset of ADS (P = 0.038), duration of ADS (P = 0.003), and total duration of BPAD (P = 0.05) showed significant association with FAST scores. Binge-drinking pattern was significantly associated with WHO QOL-BREF total scores. The total FAST scores showed a weak negative correlation with WHO QOL-BREF total scores (rs = −0.15, P = 0.01). Conclusion: Psychosocial functioning and QOL of dual diagnosis patients with BPAD and ADS were significantly impaired, even while in remission from both the disorders, which makes the elucidation of the associated factors a pressing priority.