World Bipolar Day 2026: OPTIMA's Continued Impact on Bipolar Care
This World Bipolar Day, we’re celebrating being #BipolarStrong and highlighting the ongoing impact of OPTIMA, our specialist outpatient programme for adults living with bipolar disorder.
Established in 2015, OPTIMA supports people across Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark with a strong focus on early intervention, helping prevent relapse and reduce hospital readmissions.
Sarah Bourne, Clinical Team Leader at OPTIMA, said: “Early intervention is absolutely key. When people have the tools or strategies in place to manage those early warning signs they've got a much better chance of managing the relapse and managing the episode at an earlier stage.”
The service is designed for people who experience frequent and severe episodes, focusing on the crucial two to three month window after discharge, when reflective support can make the greatest difference.
The team offers two pathways, a core programme and a group psychoeducation programme delivered by a small, highly specialist team including a consultant psychiatrist, resident doctor, a clinical nurse specialist and occupational therapists, the team help people to understand what led to episodes, recognise early warning signs and plan ahead.
What the team offers to clients
Core Programme
Delivered weekly or fortnightly after an admission, the core programme offers tailored psychoeducation, psychiatric reviews, medication guidance, occupational therapy and physical health support. The focus is on understanding triggers, spotting early changes and planning responses, alongside help to return to meaningful activity or work.
Group Psychoeducation
Three times a year, the team runs a structured six-week group programme, with 10 sessions blending education, peer support and self-management strategies. Everyone completes a Wellbeing and Early Response Plan, designed to be shared with care teams, GPs and support networks.
Creating spaces for community learning
Training for Community Teams
Last autumn, OPTIMA delivered three bipolar education sessions for community teams across all boroughs on early warning sign response planning which was well received. These sessions will be accessible on the OPTIMA page on MAUD.
Inpatient Bipolar Handbook
The new Bipolar Disorder Information Booklet, developed by Clinical Nurse Specialist NanaAma Agyei-Benhene is being piloted on Southwark wards and has received positive early feedback. Written in clear, simple language, it offers practical advice and symptom checklists. Wider rollout is planned following ongoing evaluation.
Supporting friends and families with their loved one's care
In autumn 2025, OPTIMA piloted a six session group for carers, designed to strengthen understanding and reduce isolation. Feedback was positive:
"I think it is very useful as a carer of a loved one to meet and exchange experiences with other carers."
"The course helped reduce my anxiety… I feel much less alone and stressed."
Some carers have stayed in touch informally, creating a peer network that mirrors the connection seen in OPTIMA’s psychoeducation groups. The pilot will help shape longer term support for carers.
Looking ahead
As we mark World Bipolar Day 2026, OPTIMA remains focused on timely, person-centred care that prevents relapse and builds confidence in recovery. Over the coming year, the team will continue strengthening community training, finalise evaluation of the inpatient booklet and continue to offer support for carers, ensuring people living with bipolar disorder, and those who support them, feel supported and equipped in the moments that matter most. Find out more about the team here.
