A recent randomized clinical trial conducted by researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has found that telehealth-delivered brief cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is both safe and effective for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and/or behavior. The study, which included 96 U.S. adults, addresses a critical need for accessible mental health care, particularly in light of the increased reliance on virtual therapy during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The research, led by principal investigator Justin C. Baker, PhD, compared brief CBT, a suicide-focused treatment, to present-centered therapy, a goal-oriented approach. Brief CBT teaches patients how to manage distressing emotions and negative thinking, while present-centered therapy helps participants identify adaptive responses to stressors. The study was conducted between 2021 and 2023.
Key Findings
The study revealed that brief CBT led to significant reductions in suicide attempts compared to present-centered therapy. Both treatments resulted in reductions in suicidal ideation. These findings are particularly important because prior effectiveness trials have typically compared brief CBT to standard mental health care. This study's comparison to another active intervention known to reduce depression and suicidal thoughts sets a higher benchmark.
"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.
Implications for Telehealth
The study's findings support the use of telehealth to deliver evidence-based treatments for suicide prevention. "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. This is especially relevant given that an estimated 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.
Study Design and Funding
The research was supported in part by a charitable gift from 33 Forever. Participants received either brief cognitive behavioral therapy or present-centered therapy. The primary outcome was the reduction in suicidal ideation and behavior. Researchers emphasized the importance of providing accessible and effective care to those who need it most, particularly during times of crisis.
Expert Commentary
Justin Baker highlighted the significance of the research, stating, "We wanted a way to ensure that those who needed care the most were able to receive care during the pandemic." The study provides critical insight into which kinds of treatments are most likely to lead to improved outcomes for those struggling with suicide and adds support to the effectiveness of brief CBT for reducing suicidal behaviors.
