Helping aging caregivers of Alzheimer's patients reduce suicide risk.

Reducing suicide risk among aging caregivers of persons with AD/ADRD: Adapting, implementing, and evaluating Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills training interventions.

NIH-funded research Texas Tech University · NIH-10730708

This study is looking to help family members and friends who care for people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions by teaching them special skills to manage stress and emotions, making it easier for them to cope and feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas Tech University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lubbock, United States)
Project IDNIH-10730708 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, who often face significant emotional distress and a heightened risk of suicide. The project aims to adapt Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training specifically for these caregivers, making it more accessible and relevant to their unique challenges. By developing and implementing tailored DBT skills groups, the research seeks to improve the mental health and well-being of caregivers, ultimately reducing suicide-related outcomes. The effectiveness of these adapted interventions will be evaluated through feasibility and acceptability assessments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress.

Not a fit: Patients who are not caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower the rates of suicide ideation among aging caregivers of Alzheimer's patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that adaptations of DBT can be effective in reducing suicide risk in various populations, suggesting a promising approach for this specific group.

Where this research is happening

Lubbock, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.