Helping older veterans reduce suicide risk through problem-solving therapy
Reducing Suicide Risk in Older Veterans with Mental Health Disorders using Problem Solving Therapy
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS · NIH-11115585
This study is looking at how well Problem Solving Therapy can help older veterans who are feeling suicidal by teaching them skills to handle tough emotions and situations, and it compares this approach to regular care alone.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11115585 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of Problem Solving Therapy (PST) in reducing suicidal thoughts and increasing reasons for living among older veterans at risk for suicide. The study involves a randomized control trial where participants will receive either PST combined with enhanced usual care or enhanced usual care alone. The therapy aims to teach veterans skills to overcome emotional and practical challenges that contribute to suicidal ideation. Participants will be assessed at multiple time points to track changes in their mental health and well-being.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 60 and older who experience suicidal thoughts and meet the diagnostic criteria for a mental health disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 60 or do not experience suicidal ideation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower suicide risk and improve the quality of life for older veterans struggling with mental health disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that behavioral therapies like Problem Solving Therapy can be effective in reducing suicidal ideation in various populations, suggesting a promising approach for this specific group.
Where this research is happening
PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES
- VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS — PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BEAUDREAU, SHERRY ANN — VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS
- Study coordinator: BEAUDREAU, SHERRY ANN
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.