E279 - Sleep in Bipolar Disorder: Clinical Insights with Dr. Holly Swartz

In this episode, Dr. Andy Cutler speaks with Dr. Holly Swartz about the critical role of sleep and circadian rhythms in bipolar disorder, including how sleep disturbance can function as both a symptom and trigger of mood episodes. They discuss how clinicians can better assess sleep to identify early warning signs of relapse, along with practical strategies for intervention, including applying principles of Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), choosing between behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for insomnia, and avoiding sleep medications that may destabilize mood. The episode offers a clinically focused approach to improving relapse prevention through better sleep management. Holly A. Swartz, MD, is Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, Director of the Center for Advanced Psychotherapy, and Medical Director of the Depression and Manic Depression Prevention Program. An internationally recognized expert in bipolar disorder treatment, she is President of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders and known for advancing Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), an evidence-based approach targeting sleep, circadian rhythms, and mood stabilization to prevent relapse. Andrew J. Cutler, MD, is a distinguished psychiatrist and researcher with extensive experience in clinical trials and psychopharmacology. He currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer of Neuroscience Education Institute and EMA Wellness. He is a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. Resources The Social Rhythm Therapy Workbook for Bipolar Disorder Bipolar II Disorder Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy – ipsrt.org Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance – dbsalliance.org Save $100 on registration for 2026 NEI Spring Congress with code NEIPOD26 Register today at nei.global/spring Never miss an episode!🎙SUBSCRIBE to the NEI Podcast– available on all your favorite platforms: https://nei.global/podcast Interested in Psychopharmacology? Learn about the NEI Master Psychopharmacology Program: https://nei.global/mpp Stay updated with email alerts and join our conversations on social. Follow us on: YouTube: https://nei.global/youtube Instagram: https://nei.global/instagram LinkedIn: https://nei.global/linkedin Facebook: https://nei.global/facebook X: https://nei.global/twitter