Culturally adapted therapy for suicidal thoughts in first episode psychosis
Culturally Adapted Psychosocial Intervention for Suicidal Ideation in Individuals With First Episode Psychosis: A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
This study is testing a new type of therapy designed to help people experiencing suicidal thoughts during their first episode of psychosis, particularly in countries with limited mental health resources.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Karachi, Sindh) |
| Trial ID | NCT05728138 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of culturally adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Psychosis (CaCBTp) and a brief psychological intervention for self-harm (CMAP Plus) in individuals experiencing suicidal ideation during their first episode of psychosis. The study aims to address the significant treatment gap in low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan, where mental health resources are limited. By focusing on culturally relevant approaches, the trial seeks to provide effective psychosocial interventions for a vulnerable population. Participants will be assessed for their eligibility based on specific mental health criteria and will receive tailored therapeutic support.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 18 and above diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who exhibit mild suicidal thoughts.
Not a fit: Patients with severe suicidal ideation or those with significant comorbid illnesses or organic brain diseases may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce suicidal ideation and improve mental health outcomes for individuals experiencing first episode psychosis.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on culturally adapted therapies in low-income settings, similar approaches in high-income countries have shown promise in improving mental health outcomes.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals diagnosed with, Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective disorder according to DSM-V, confirmed by treating consultant. * Age 18 and above years able to understand written and spoken Urdu. * A score of 1 (Mild- Frequent thoughts of being better off dead, or occasional thoughts of suicide.) on the Calgary depression Scale item 8 (Suicide) "Have you felt that life wasn't worth living? Did you ever feel like ending it all? What did you think you might do? Did you actually try?" * Individuals with a score of 3 or more on any of the positive symptoms on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) (e.g., delusions, hallucination). Exclusion Criteria: * Any evidence of organic brain disease, clinically significant comorbid illness or learning disability. Participants deemed actively suicidal by their designated health professional. * Those scoring \>1 on Calgary depression Scale will be excluded and be referred to a psychiatric service.
Where this trial is running
Karachi, Sindh
- Karwan e Hayat — Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Imran Chaudhry — Ziauddin Hospital
- Study coordinator: Zaib un Nisa
- Email: Zaibunnisa@pill.org.pk
- Phone: 021-35871845
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.