Improving mental health support for prisoners in Switzerland
Feasibility and Acceptability of PRISMA for Prisoners in Switzerland - a Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial
NA · University of Zurich · NCT06404502
This study is testing a new mental health program for pretrial detainees in Switzerland to see if it can help them feel better during and after their time in detention.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich, Canton of Zurich) |
| Trial ID | NCT06404502 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This initiative aims to address the mental health challenges faced by pretrial detainees in Switzerland through the implementation of the PRISMA program, which is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy strategies developed by the WHO. Conducted in pretrial detention centers in Zurich and Bern, the study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention alongside additional social support services. The randomized controlled trial will assess the impact of PRISMA on the psychological wellbeing of inmates, aiming to enhance their mental health during and after detention. The findings will inform a larger-scale trial to improve mental health support for incarcerated individuals.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pretrial detainees aged 18 and older who are entering detention in the cantons of Zurich and Bern.
Not a fit: Patients who are not fluent in any of the nine languages offered for the PRISMA program or those experiencing acute suicidality may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the mental health and wellbeing of pretrial detainees, aiding their reintegration into society.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches in improving mental health outcomes in incarcerated populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Entering pretrial detention inmate in any of the 11 pretrial detention facilities in the Cantons of Zurich and Bern * aged ≥ 18 years Exclusion Criteria: * Not fluently speaking any of the nine languages in which PRISMA is offered: German, Albanian, Arabic, English, French, Italian, Romanian, Serbian/ Croatian, Spanish * Acute suicidality * Not interested in PRISMA and its randomized evaluation
Where this trial is running
Zurich, Canton of Zurich
- University of Zurich — Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Naser Morina, PhD
- Email: naser.morina@usz.ch
- Phone: +41 44 255 5280
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.
Conditions: Psychological Distress, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation