Can imagining a brighter future help smokers with bipolar kick the habit?

NCT ID NCT06609902

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a 6-session virtual program called Future Self-BD for adults with bipolar disorder who want to quit smoking. Participants are guided to vividly imagine positive future events that could result from quitting, combined with brief smoking cessation counseling. The trial involves 70 people and focuses on whether the program is acceptable and feasible to deliver, not yet on whether it helps people quit.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Future Self-BD (behavioral intervention: episodic future thinking and CBT-based counseling)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new, accessible way to help people with bipolar disorder quit smoking by boosting motivation through positive future thinking.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial (70 people) testing feasibility, not effectiveness. The intervention is virtual and relies on participant engagement, which may limit real-world use.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder nicotine dependence Smoking Cessation

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States