Using brain imaging to help veterans reduce harmful repetitive thoughts about suicide
Reducing Suicide-Specific Rumination in Veterans using Real-time Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Neurofeedback
This study is exploring how a special brain scan technique can help veterans learn to manage and reduce negative thoughts that can lead to feeling suicidal, by giving them real-time feedback on their brain activity so they can gain better control over their thinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James J Peters VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914487 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback can help veterans manage and reduce suicidal thoughts by targeting rumination, which is the tendency to engage in negative, self-critical thinking. By using brain imaging technology, the study aims to identify and alter brain activity patterns associated with these harmful thoughts. Veterans will participate in sessions where they receive feedback on their brain activity, allowing them to learn how to control their thoughts and potentially decrease their risk of suicide.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 21 and older who experience suicidal thoughts and engage in rumination.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of suicidal thoughts or rumination may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide veterans with a new therapeutic tool to manage suicidal thoughts and improve their mental health.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using neurofeedback and brain imaging techniques to address mental health issues, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- James J Peters VA Medical Center — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Szeszko, Philip R — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Szeszko, Philip R
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.