Couple-based intervention for suicide prevention in Veterans
Development of a Novel Couples-Based Suicide Intervention: Treatment for Relationships and Safety Together (TR&ST)
This study is testing a new couple-based approach to help prevent suicide in Veterans by improving their relationships and communication with their partners.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 144 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (San Diego, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT04816149 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This intervention focuses on preventing suicide among Veterans by addressing interpersonal relationships, particularly the quality of intimate partnerships. It involves Veterans with suicidal ideation and their willing partners, who will participate in treatment sessions designed to enhance relationship satisfaction and communication. The study aims to explore the impact of relationship dynamics on suicidal thoughts and behaviors, utilizing both standard suicide intervention techniques and a novel couple-based approach. Participants will be assessed and treated over a period of seven months in the San Diego region.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include Veterans experiencing suicidal ideation who have a committed partner willing to participate in the intervention.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in a committed relationship or those with severe mental health issues such as psychosis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Veterans by improving their intimate relationships.
How similar studies have performed: While couple-based interventions for mental health issues are gaining attention, this specific approach targeting suicide prevention in Veterans is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
* Veterans who report present suicidal ideation CSSR-S \> 2 ("Active thoughts of killing oneself") in past 1 month at phone screen and/or a suicide attempt in the prior 3 months, and
* an intimate partner who is willing to participate.
* Additional inclusion criteria for both Veterans and Partners include:
* in the committed relationship for at least 6 months
* plans to remain in the San Diego region for 7 months
* capable of informed consent
* agree to have assessment and treatment sessions audio recorded.
Exclusion Criteria:
The following are our Exclusion Criteria for both Veterans and Partners:
* not English speaking
* cannot complete the assessment battery
* current substance use requiring immediate detoxification or outpatient plan directed specifically to residential substance use disorder (not mental health) services
* has or meets criteria for a current diagnosis of psychosis and/or mania in either member of the couple
* under conservatorship requiring proxy consent
* any perpetration of severe physical or sexual relationship aggression in the past year (as assessed by the CTS-2)
Where this trial is running
San Diego, California
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA — San Diego, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chandra E Khalifian, PhD — VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
- Study coordinator: Chandra E Khalifian, PhD
- Email: Chandra.Khalifian@va.gov
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.