Culturally adapted therapy for suicidal thoughts in first episode psychosis
Official title: Culturally Adapted Psychosocial Intervention for Suicidal Ideation in Individuals With First Episode Psychosis: A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial
Run by Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning · NCT05728138 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Karachi, Sindh) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2025 |
| Study ends | October 30, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | January 3, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05728138 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals aged 18 and above diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who exhibit mild suicidal thoughts.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe suicidal ideation or those with significant comorbid illnesses or organic brain diseases may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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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 take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.