Peer-led intervention for suicide prevention in veterans with serious mental illness
A Novel Peer-Delivered Recovery-Focused Suicide Prevention Intervention for Veterans With Serious Mental Illness
This study is testing a new support program for veterans with serious mental illness to see if it can help reduce thoughts of suicide and improve their recovery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 69 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (San Diego, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05537376 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans who are currently experiencing suicidal ideation or have attempted suicide recently and have a diagnosis of serious mental illness.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have serious mental illness or are not currently experiencing suicidal thoughts may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce suicide risk and improve recovery outcomes for veterans with serious mental illness.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise with peer-led interventions for mental health, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 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: 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
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.