Qnnections: a 10-week group program to build social connection for LGBTQ+ and other minoritized Veterans

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

Qnnections is a cognitive-behavioral, group-based intervention designed to reduce perceived burdensomeness and increase belongingness among LGBTQ+ and other minoritized Veterans. Phase 1 refines the 10-week program with input from a Veteran Advisory Board and expert mentors and runs a small open pilot (n=10) to gather acceptability data. Phase 2 conducts a randomized pilot (n=48) comparing Qnnections plus safety planning and referrals to an Enhanced Usual Care condition, with assessments at baseline, mid-treatment, post-treatment, and a ten-week follow-up and qualitative interviews. The primary focus is on feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and study procedures rather than efficacy.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Veterans who report past-month active suicidal ideation (C-SSRS \[Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale\]

  \-- or past-3-month suicidal behavior;
* LGBTQ+ or other minoritized gender or sexual identity;
* Have a mental health point-of-contact (e.g., Suicide Prevention Coordinator, Mental Health Treatment Coordinator);
* Willing to complete or update safety plan.

Exclusion Criteria:

* cannot provide informed consent;
* imminent psychiatric hospitalization;
* current or planned participation in residential/intensive outpatient program that would interfere study participation;
* in a conservatorship; and
* has participated in any previous parts of the study.

Where it's running

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

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Cindy Chang, PsyD — VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
• Study coordinator: Cindy Chang, PsyD
• Email: Cindy.Chang4@va.gov
• Phone: (786) 853-8782

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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.