An exploratory randomised trial of a simple, brief psychological intervention to reduce subsequent suicidal ideation and behaviour in patients admitted to hospital for self-harm. (May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Armitage, Christopher J.; Rahim, Wirda Abdul; Rowe, Richard; O'Connor, Rory C.
• Is Part Of: British journal of psychiatry. Volume 208:Number 5(2016)
• Page Start: 470
• Page End: 476
• Publication Date: 2016-05
• Subjects: Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.114.162495
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1250

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Implementation intentions link triggers for self-harm with coping skills and appear to create an automatic tendency to invoke coping responses when faced with a triggering situation. Aims: To test the effectiveness of implementation intentions in reducing suicidal ideation and behaviour in a high-risk group. Method: Two hundred and twenty-six patients who had self-harmed were randomised to: (a) forming implementation intentions with a 'volitional help sheet'; (b) self-generating implementation intentions without help; or (c) thinking about triggers and coping, but not forming implementation intentions. We measured self-reported suicidal ideation and behaviour, threats of suicide and likelihood of future suicide attempt at baseline and then again at the 3-month follow-up. Results: All suicide-related outcome measures were significantly lower at follow-up among patients forming implementation intentions compared with those in the control condition ( d s>0.35). The volitional help sheet resulted in fewer suicide threats ( d = 0.59) and lowered the likelihood of future suicide attempts ( d = 0.29) compared with patients who self-generated implementation intentions. Conclusions: Implementation intention-based interventions, particularly when supported by a volitional help sheet, show promise in reducing future suicidal ideation and behaviour.