Melbourne bipolar patients’ Facebook posts to be studied for apparent signs of a relapse

A WORLD-first program will monitor the Facebook pages of Melbourne bipolar patients to determine if their postings can identify when they are headed for a relapse.

A young female adult using her phone while leaning on the wall

A WORLD-first program will monitor the Facebook pages of Melbourne bipolar patients to determine if their postings, “likes” and updates can identify when they are headed for a relapse.

The pilot program will analyse changes in a person’s ­social media interactions to gauge changes in their mood, while also prompting a daily self-assessment asking them to rate their feelings each day.

The Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre program centres on an application it developed with RMIT University, which can be downloaded by patients and linked to their Facebook page to help them avoid episodes of mania.

The groundbreaking program will be launched by beyondblue chairman Jeff Kennett, who said social media offered an unprecedented opportunity to support those who may be struggling.

“Beyondblue has identified one such opportunity here and clever and innovative approaches like this can make a real difference to the lives of thousands of Australians,” Mr Kennett said.

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Originally published as Melbourne bipolar patients’ Facebook posts to be studied for apparent signs of a relapse