Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of the Mobile Intervention for Suicidal Thoughts
VA Office of Research and Development
Summary
One of the factors that contributes to suicide risk is what is known as a "suicidal belief system." This belief system is made up of several cognitions that been associated with suicide risk among military personnel. Modification of these cognitions may reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study team has developed a brief mobile intervention entitled the Mobile Intervention for Suicidal Thoughts (MIST) that uses evidence-based interpretation bias modification techniques to reduce these suicide cognitions. The goal of this project is to is to conduct a pilot trial of the MIST intervention to evaluate whether it is feasible an acceptable as an adjunct treatment for Veterans with suicidal ideation.
Description
One of the factors that contributes to suicide risk is what is known as a "suicidal belief system." This belief system is made up of several cognitions, including hopelessness, thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, unlovability, unbearability, and unsolvability. These cognitions have all been associated with suicide risk among military personnel. Modification of these cognitions may reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study team has developed a brief mobile intervention entitled the Mobile Intervention for Suicidal Thoughts (MIST) that uses evidence-based interpretation bia…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Veterans using the Durham VA Health Care System * Endorsing suicidal ideation without intent in the last 30 days, established via C-SSRS * Meet at least every 4 months with a mental health provider, established via chart review chart * Can read at least 6th grade level material, established by their demonstrated ability to read the consent form and answer basic questions about it Exclusion Criteria: * Currently in a period of active psychosis or mania, established via the SCID-5 * Currently meeting criteria for a moderate or severe alcohol or substance use disorder, es…
Interventions
- BehavioralSafety planning
Safety planning (SP) is a single-session intervention that consists of developing a written list of individualized coping strategies and sources of support that can be used during a suicidal crisis.
- BehavioralTreatment as usual
This will include continued care with any of the Veterans' current providers. Study staff will also place appropriate referrals for Veterans, as needed (e.g., Trauma Recovery Program referrals for Veterans with PTSD, Sleep Psychology referrals for Veterans with insomnia). Participants will be encouraged to follow up with their providers' recommendations and treatment plans
- BehavioralMIST Intervention
This is a mobile intervention designed to target and modify suicidal cognitions. Veteran in this condition will be asked to use the intervention 5 times a week for 4 weeks.
Location
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NCDurham, North Carolina