What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

Common treatments for suicide, such as those similar to the Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program (CLASP), include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapies work by helping patients identify and change negative thought patterns, develop problem-solving skills, and build emotional regulation abilities. They also incorporate social support and crisis planning, which are essential for reducing feelings of isolation and providing immediate coping mechanisms during suicidal crises. These mechanisms are crucial for suicide patients as they address the underlying cognitive and emotional factors contributing to suicidal ideation, thereby reducing the risk of suicide attempts.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for suicide prevention, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and supportive therapies like the Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program (CLASP), generally have minimal physical side effects but can sometimes lead to emotional discomfort as patients confront distressing thoughts and feelings. Pharmacological treatments, often used alongside these therapies, include antidepressants like SSRIs, which can cause side effects such as nausea, insomnia, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. It is crucial for patients to discuss these potential side effects with their healthcare providers to manage them effectively.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several medications for the treatment of conditions associated with an increased risk of suicide, such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. Notably, lithium has been shown to reduce suicide risk in patients with mood disorders. Additionally, clozapine is approved for reducing the risk of recurrent suicidal behavior in patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. While the CLASP program focuses on providing coping strategies and support, similar psychotherapeutic interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), have been widely recognized for their effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation and behaviors. These therapies, although not FDA-approved as 'treatments' per se, are integral components of comprehensive suicide prevention strategies.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to CLASP for suicide patients in 2024 include: 1) Digital mental health interventions such as mobile apps and teletherapy platforms that provide real-time support and coping strategies. 2) Collaborative care models integrating mental health services into primary care settings to ensure continuous and comprehensive care. 3) Crisis intervention programs like the Zero Suicide framework, which emphasizes systematic suicide prevention in healthcare systems. 4) Peer support programs that connect patients with trained individuals who have lived experience with suicide and recovery.

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CLASP for Suicide Prevention (3C Trial)

N/A

Recruiting

Led By Lauren Weinstock, PhD

Research Sponsored by Brown University

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

18 years or older

Be older than 18 years old

Must not have

Impaired decision-making capacity

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up 6 months after discharge

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial will test a program called CLASP, which helps veterans at high risk for suicide after leaving the hospital. The program offers extra support and coping strategies, sometimes involving a loved one.

Who is the study for?

The Veterans Coordinated Community Care (3C) Study is for veterans at least 18 years old who are considered high-risk for suicide after leaving the hospital. They must be able to speak English, make their own decisions, and have access to a phone post-discharge.

What is being tested?

This study tests if adding the Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program (CLASP) to usual treatment helps reduce suicide-related behaviors in veterans. Participants will either receive standard care or standard plus CLASP and will be monitored for six months.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this trial involves a psychological support program rather than medication, typical medical side effects are not expected. However, discussing sensitive topics may cause emotional discomfort.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I am 18 years old or older.

Exclusion Criteria

You may be eligible for the trial if you check “No” for criteria below:

Select...

I have difficulty making decisions due to my health condition.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ 6 months after discharge

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~6 months after discharge

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and 6 months after discharge for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

3C Suicide Outcome Measure

Veterans Affairs Healthcare System (VAHS) health and administrative records on suicide related behaviors

Secondary study objectives

3C Suicidal Ideation and Functioning Outcome Measure

Veterans Affairs Healthcare System (VAHS) health and administrative records on suicidal ideation and functioning

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program (CLASP)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

The CLASP intervention is an adjunctive, telehealth-based behavioral intervention designed to reduce suicidal behavior among individuals at high risk for suicide going through periods of transition. CLASP is designed to intervene on four risk factor targets: ongoing treatment engagement, problem-solving, social and family support, and hopelessness. In addition to these general factors, the CLASP provider also has the flexibility to identify and target certain "patient-specific" risk factors (e.g., substance misuse) for intervention. CLASP will begin after completion of the baseline assessment, and will continue for 6 months post-discharge. CLASP will be comprised of: a) 3 initial sessions while participants are still inpatients (can occur post-discharge if needed); b) 12 brief telehealth sessions over 6-months post-discharge; c) 6 brief SO telehealth sessions.

Group II: Treatment As Usual (TAU)Active Control1 Intervention

Treatment As Usual (TAU) consists of unrestricted treatment provided as part of routine care in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) following inpatient hospitalization. Study staff will provide no additional treatment in this arm.

0 / 2Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for suicide, such as those similar to the Coping Long Term with Active Suicide Program (CLASP), include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapies work by helping patients identify and change negative thought patterns, develop problem-solving skills, and build emotional regulation abilities. They also incorporate social support and crisis planning, which are essential for reducing feelings of isolation and providing immediate coping mechanisms during suicidal crises. These mechanisms are crucial for suicide patients as they address the underlying cognitive and emotional factors contributing to suicidal ideation, thereby reducing the risk of suicide attempts.

A treatment strategy for meeting life as it is. Patients' and therapists' experiences of brief therapy in a district psychiatric centre: A qualitative study.Effectiveness of a Suicide Prevention Module for Adults in Substance Use Disorder Treatment: A Stepped-Wedge Cluster-Randomized Clinical Trial.Reports on the Perceived Advantages and Disadvantages of Suicidal Behavior by Patients With Depression.