Thwarted Belongingness and Intolerance of Uncertainty in Individuals with a Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

This data, supports a study where we explore the link between
belongingness and intolerance of uncertainty (anxiety) in individuals
diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, crucial for understanding suicide risks
and enhancing psychological interventions. We examine two models
explaining the development of anxiety and thwarted belongingness,
controlling for factors like stigma and current mood state. Method A total
of 132 participants with a self-reported Bipolar Disorder diagnosis
completed an online survey. Linear regression was used to analyse the
association between intolerance of uncertainty and thwarted belongingness,
controlling for confounding variables. Results Thwarted belongingness
emerged as the sole significant predictor of intolerance of uncertainty
(Beta = .41, 95% CI .17 to .66). In models assessing thwarted
belongingness, both being in a mood episode and intolerance of uncertainty
were significant predictors (ps <.05). Additionally, the last model
revealed that perceived stigma (Beta = .27, 95% CI .06 to .48) and higher
depression levels (Beta = .24, 95% CI .02 to .46) also significantly
worsened feelings of non-belonging. Conclusions The findings indicate a
bidirectional relationship where a lack of social belonging exacerbates
feelings of uncertainty and anxiety and vice versa. This underscores the
intricate relationship between social integration and affective responses
in Bipolar Disorder. Targeting intolerance of uncertainty and enhancing
belongingness in interventions could thus be highly beneficial.
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