What is it about?
This study aimed to see if an add-on module could help people with depression by reducing unwanted suicidal images and thoughts. We included 91 adults in the Netherlands with depression who often experienced distressing suicidal images. We found that individuals who received the cognitive dual-task add-on module had a greater reduction in the severity and frequency of suicidal images compared to those who received only treatment as usual. They also showed a decrease in suicidal thoughts over time. However, both groups showed similar levels of depressive symptoms, rumination, and hopelessness.
Featured Image
Photo by Anthony Tran on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Unlike many studies that focus primarily on reducing suicidal thoughts, this research addresses intrusive suicidal images, which can be highly distressing and are often overlooked in treatment. By targeting these images, the add-on module offers a more comprehensive approach to managing suicidal symptoms.
Perspectives
Writing this article was a great pleasure as I greatly value collaborating with the co-authors. I hope the article helps bring us one step closer to reducing suicides.
Jael van Bentum
Universiteit Utrecht
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Reducing intrusive suicidal mental images in patients with depressive symptoms through a dual-task add-on module: Results of a multicenter randomized clinical trial., Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, July 2024, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000874.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
