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Effectiveness of online self-help for suicidal thoughts: results of a randomised controlled trial
Bregje A J van Spijker1, Annemieke van Straten2, Ad J F M Kerkhof2
1Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia ; Department of Clinical Psychology and the EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, Faculty of Psychology and Education, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Background:
Many people with suicidal thoughts do not receive treatment. The Internet can be used to reach more people in need of support.
Objective:
To test the effectiveness of unguided online self-help to reduce suicidal thoughts.
Method:
236 adults with mild to moderate suicidal thoughts were randomised to the intervention (n=116) or a waitlist control group (n=120). Assessments took place at baseline, and 2, 4 and 6 weeks later. Primary outcome was suicidal thoughts. Secondary outcomes were depressive symptoms, anxiety, hopelessness, worry, and health status.
Results:
The intervention group showed a small significant effect in reducing suicidal thoughts (d=0.28). Effects were more pronounced for those with a history of repeated suicide attempts. There was also a significant reduction in worry (d=0.33). All other secondary outcomes showed small but non-significant improvements.
Conclusions:
Although effect sizes were small, the reach of the internet could enable this intervention to help many people reduce their suicidal thoughts.
Trial Registration:
Netherlands Trial Register NTR1689.
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