Peer-led intervention for suicide prevention in veterans with serious mental illness

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study aims to refine and pilot a peer-delivered intervention called SUPPORT, designed to help veterans with serious mental illness who are at risk for suicide. The intervention focuses on personalized recovery planning, utilizing cognitive learning strategies to enhance recall of safety plans and improve overall functioning. The study consists of two phases: the first phase involves refining the intervention with input from stakeholders and training Peer Specialists, while the second phase includes a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing SUPPORT to enhanced standard care. Participants will be assessed quantitatively and qualitatively to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention in reducing suicidal ideation and improving personal recovery.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Veteran Inclusion Criteria:

1. Veterans who report present suicidal ideation (i.e., Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) \> 2 ("Active thoughts of killing oneself") in past 1 month and/or a suicide attempt in the prior 3 months as identified by the C-SSRS
2. Current SMI diagnosis (i.e., schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, mood disorders with psychotic features, bipolar disorders)
3. Capable of informed consent via the University of California San Diego Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent (UBACC)

Peer Specialist Inclusion Criteria:

1. Certified Peer Specialist employed at VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS) in the Mental Health Care Line (individuals must demonstrate competency in basic suicide screening and referral procedures to be certified)
2. 2-3 years of experience post certification as a Certified Peer Specialist
3. Interest in being trained in SUPPORT
4. Provide verbal or written consent for the research staff to discuss ability to participate in the study with the Peer Specialist's direct clinical supervisor
5. Direct clinical supervisor agreement to allow the Peer Specialist to participate. This includes the Peer Specialist's direct clinical supervisor agreement to allow the Peer Specialist time as part of their current scope of practice to 1) participate in the full day (8-hour) SUPPORT training, 2) participate in weekly 1-hour group supervision for the duration of the Peer Specialist's time in the study, and 3) take on a case load of at least one SUPPORT Veteran at a given time.

Exclusion Criteria:

Veteran Exclusion Criteria:

1. Cannot complete the assessment battery
2. Current intoxication requiring immediate detoxification or outpatient plan directed specifically to residential substance use disorder (not mental health) services
3. Imminent psychiatric hospitalization

Where it's running

• VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
  San Diego, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Samantha A Chalker, PhD — VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
• Study coordinator: Samantha A Chalker, PhD
• Email: Samantha.Chalker1@va.gov
• Phone: (619) 680-1735

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.