The Bipolar & Depression Outcomes Research Institute offers a comprehensive range of research-based programs and services designed to improve outcomes for individuals living with bipolar disorder and depression. All of our programs are peer-directed and grounded in the lived experiences of our community.
Research Studies
Ongoing Research Programs
Bipolar and Depression Outcomes Research
Our flagship research program examines functionality, comfort levels, understanding, and value across different mood intensities. Rather than focusing solely on symptom reduction, we study what it takes to maintain optimal functioning and quality of life while experiencing various mood states.
Key Research Areas:
- Functionality Assessment: Measuring how well individuals function during different phases of bipolar disorder and depression
- Comfort Zone Expansion: Understanding comfort levels at various mood intensities and how to expand productive comfort zones
- Tool Effectiveness: Evaluating which interventions work best for specific outcomes and circumstances
- Understanding and Awareness: Assessing how different levels of self-awareness impact outcomes
- Value and Meaning: Exploring how individuals find value and purpose during challenging mood states
Research Methodology:
- Peer-designed studies directed by individuals with lived experience
- Community-driven research questions based on real-world needs
- Collaborative approach involving participants in study design and implementation
- Focus on practical, applicable outcomes rather than theoretical constructs
How to Participate in Research
Current Study Opportunities:
- Functionality and comfort assessments
- Tool evaluation studies
- Longitudinal outcome tracking
- Community-based research initiatives
Participation Process:
- Contact us to express interest
- Complete eligibility screening
- Attend research orientation
- Begin participation in relevant studies
- Receive ongoing support and feedback
Benefits of Participation:
- Access to cutting-edge research findings
- Connection with peer researchers and participants
- Contribution to advancing mental health understanding
- Personal insights into your own patterns and effective strategies
Learn more about current research opportunities
Educational Programs
Evidence-Based Courses
Bipolar IN Order Course Series
Comprehensive educational program based on our research findings, designed to help individuals understand and optimize their experience with bipolar disorder and depression.
Course Components:
- Understanding mood intensity patterns
- Developing functional strategies for different mood states
- Building effective support systems
- Creating personalized management protocols
- Implementing measurement and tracking systems
Course Format:
- Self-paced online modules
- Interactive exercises and assessments
- Peer discussion forums
- Resource libraries and tools
- Ongoing community support
Target Audience:
- Individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder or depression
- Family members and support persons
- Mental health advocates and peers
- Healthcare providers seeking patient perspectives
Educational Resources
Research Publications and Findings
We regularly publish our research findings and make them freely available to the community. Our publications focus on practical applications of research results.
Resource Library:
- Assessment tools and protocols
- Management strategy guides
- Research summaries and implications
- Best practices documentation
- Community success stories
Blog and Articles:
- Regular posts on research findings
- Practical tips and strategies
- Community spotlights
- Expert commentary on mental health topics
Volunteer Opportunities
Research Volunteer Program
Peer Researchers
Join our team of peer researchers who help design, implement, and analyze research studies. All peer researchers have lived experience with bipolar disorder or depression.
Research Support Roles:
- Study design and protocol development
- Data collection and participant support
- Research analysis and interpretation
- Community outreach and recruitment
- Publication and dissemination support
Community Outreach Volunteers
Advocacy and Awareness
Help spread awareness about our research and challenge stigma around mental health conditions.
Outreach Activities:
- Community education presentations
- Social media content creation
- Conference and event representation
- Resource distribution
- Partnership development
Administrative Support
Operations Volunteers
Support our day-to-day operations and help us maximize resources for research activities.
Administrative Roles:
- Website maintenance and updates
- Communication coordination
- Event planning and logistics
- Financial record keeping
- Grant writing and fundraising support
Join Our Volunteer Team - Make a difference in mental health research
Support Services
Financial Assistance Program
Mental Health Service Support
We provide financial assistance to individuals who cannot afford mental health services, ensuring that economic barriers don't prevent access to care.
Assistance Available:
- Therapy and counseling session costs
- Psychiatric consultation fees
- Medication assistance programs
- Support group participation costs
- Educational program scholarships
Application Process:
- Submit financial need documentation
- Complete assistance application
- Participate in brief screening interview
- Receive assistance determination
- Connect with approved service providers
Peer Support Networks
Community Connection
We facilitate connections between individuals with similar experiences, creating supportive peer networks based on shared challenges and goals.
Support Network Features:
- Peer mentorship programs
- Support group facilitation
- Online community forums
- Skill-sharing workshops
- Crisis support protocols
Professional Services
Research Consultation
Healthcare Provider Education
We offer consultation services to healthcare providers, researchers, and organizations seeking to understand patient perspectives and improve treatment approaches.
Consultation Services:
- Treatment protocol review
- Patient experience analysis
- Research design consultation
- Staff training and education
- Program evaluation and improvement
Speaking and Presentation
Expert Commentary
Our team provides speaking services for conferences, educational events, and media appearances, bringing peer perspectives to professional audiences.
Speaking Topics:
- Peer-directed research methodologies
- Optimal outcomes vs. remission-based approaches
- Lived experience in mental health research
- Community-based intervention strategies
- Advocacy and stigma reduction
Partnership Opportunities
Research Collaborations
We welcome partnerships with:
- Academic research institutions
- Healthcare organizations
- Other mental health nonprofits
- Government agencies and foundations
- Community organizations
Community Partnerships
Local and National Connections
We work with organizations that share our commitment to improving mental health outcomes through community-driven approaches.
How to Access Our Services
Getting Started
- Explore our website to understand our approach and available programs
- Contact us to discuss your interests
- Complete any required applications for specific programs or services
- Participate in orientation for research or volunteer opportunities
- Begin your involvement with ongoing support from our team
Cost and Accessibility
- Research participation: Free for all participants
- Educational courses: Available on sliding scale basis
- Volunteer opportunities: No cost to participate
- Financial assistance: Available based on need assessment
- All services designed for accessibility regardless of economic circumstances
Impact and Outcomes
Research Impact
- Studies completed: Multiple ongoing research initiatives
- Participants served: Growing community of research participants
- Publications produced: Regular research findings and practical guides
- Tools developed: Assessment protocols and management strategies
Community Impact
- Education provided: Hundreds of individuals trained in evidence-based approaches
- Financial assistance: Direct support for mental health services
- Volunteer engagement: Active community of peer researchers and advocates
- Awareness raised: Ongoing efforts to change conversations about mental health
Ready to Get Involved?
Whether you're interested in participating in research, accessing educational resources, volunteering your time and expertise, or partnering with us, we welcome your involvement. Contact us today to learn more about how BDORI can support your goals and how you can contribute to advancing mental health outcomes.
Contact Information:
Email: contact us
Mail: 3252 Capstan Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Together, we're changing the conversation about mental health from limitation to possibility.