Nested Qualitative Study

The qualitative sub-study has now closed. It was designed in collaboration with researchers at Keele University to assess a number of factors related to the treatment of bipolar in various settings.

What is a nested study?

A nested study is a study which takes place within a larger trial. This nested study worked with participants already taking part in the ASCEnD Trial.

The overall ASCEnD trial will look at different treatment options in people with bipolar, the nested study looked at people’s experience of taking part in ASCEnD and how we can improve it.

We did this to give our participants a chance to share their thoughts and opinions so that we could improve our processes for future participants.

ASCEnD qualitative study explanation by Isobel, research associate at Keele University.

Keele University logo with name in large letters — collaborators on the ASCEnD bipolar depression trial delivering the qualitative sub-study.

How did the qualitative sub-study work?

We interviewed participants and staff to explore their personal experience. For example, we asked “how has living with bipolar disorder affected you?” and “can you tell me how you got involved in the trial?”

We also wanted to find out why some people withdraw and some people complete the trial.

This involved exploring what people think about

  • Diagnosis and management of bipolar

  • The medications prescribed to people with bipolar

Carolyn Chew Graham (OBE) and Isobel Hoppe from Keele University lead this qualitative study.