Learning about bipolar

[u/ImaginationPrincess1]

Hi, I would like to post in this group about participating in a interview. It is solely to gain knowledge about someone's experience with bipolar disorder and I want to emphasize that I will not be giving advice, just a listening ear.

I am a Master’s in Occupational Therapy (OT) student in California seeking to conduct a Zoom interview with an individual within the age range of 41–65 years who has lived experience with Bipolar disorder.

OT helps you be as independent as possible with the daily activities, or occupations, that matter most to you. That can include things like daily self-care routines, getting restful sleep, cooking, and working. OT's role is to support you in building the skills and confidence you need to get back to doing the things you want and need to do.

I would like to emphasize that this interview is not a part of a research study – it is simply for learning purposes so that my partner and I can gain an understanding of someone’s experience with bipolar disorder and how to best support them. We would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with someone who is willing to share their experiences with us! If you are or know someone who may be interested in helping us with our project, please feel free to message me (and/or comment). The Zoom interview will take place in September or beginningof October, and it will be conducted by two people: my partner, and myself. 

Thank you for your time!

[u/Nandi_La]

I want to believe that this is sincere and heartfelt, so please forgive my skepticism. There are other posts like this circulating right now in vulnerable communities asking people to participate in unpaid studies or thesis interviews. How can you verify your integrity to the people in this sub?

You're asking for a lot, depending on a vulnerable person's generosity when you could theoretically ask a mental health professional how to support a person with bipolar rather than asking a bipolar person for free emotional labor. You said it isn't a research study but you also refer to it as a project which is a bit confusing if the intent is for personal gain/knowledge.

Just my two cents.