A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that brief cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) administered via telehealth significantly reduces suicide attempts and suicidal ideation in adults. The randomized clinical trial, conducted by researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine, offers a promising avenue for expanding access to critical mental health care, particularly in underserved areas.
The study, which took place between 2021 and 2023, involved 96 U.S. adults with recent suicidal ideation or behavior. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either brief CBT or present-centered therapy via video telehealth. Brief CBT is a focused treatment that equips patients with strategies to manage distressing emotions and negative thought patterns. Present-centered therapy, on the other hand, aims to help participants develop adaptive responses to stressors.
The results indicated that brief CBT led to a significant reduction in suicide attempts compared to present-centered therapy. Both treatments resulted in decreased suicidal ideation. According to Justin C. Baker, PhD, principal investigator and clinical director of Ohio State’s Suicide and Trauma Reduction Initiative (STRIVE) program, this study provides crucial insights into effective treatments for individuals struggling with suicide.
"For those suffering with suicidal thoughts and behaviors, we have good, tested treatments that will lead to significant symptom reduction and improved quality of life," said study co-investigator Craig Bryan, PsyD, professor in Ohio State’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health and director of its Suicide Prevention Program.
Impact of Telehealth on Accessibility
The shift to virtual therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of telehealth to reach high-risk patients who might otherwise face barriers to care. Historically, concerns about risk and liability have limited the use of virtual healthcare for this population. This study demonstrates that mental health therapists can effectively and safely treat suicidal patients remotely.
"Even with lessening restrictions, many therapists are keeping a portion of their telehealth practice post pandemic. This study has the potential to increase access to needed evidence-based treatments for those in rural and hard-to-reach areas," Bryan noted.
Study Details and Context
This research addresses a critical public health issue, as approximately 703,000 people die by suicide each year worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. In 2022, there were 49,449 suicides in the United States. The study's findings underscore the importance of accessible, evidence-based interventions for suicide prevention.
Prior studies have shown that brief CBT can reduce suicide attempts by as much as 60% compared to typical mental health care. This study builds on that evidence by comparing brief CBT to another active intervention known to reduce depression and suicidal thoughts, providing a more rigorous assessment of its effectiveness.
