Veteran Preferences for the Caring Contacts Suicide Prevention Intervention

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health Care

Background:

• The Caring Contacts intervention is utilized with diverse methodologies.
• Understanding patient preferences is crucial for optimizing intervention effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the preferences of high-risk inpatient veterans regarding the Caring Contacts intervention.
• To gather feedback on specific elements of the Caring Contacts intervention.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 154 veteran psychiatric inpatients.
• The survey assessed preferences for message wording, correspondent type, contact frequency, intervention duration, imagery, and mailing method.

Main Results:

• 85% of veterans desired Caring Contacts from a mental health counselor or primary care physician.
• Mailed letters or postcards were preferred over electronic communication.
• Monthly contact for one year was the most preferred duration and frequency.

Conclusions:

• High-risk veterans generally perceive Caring Contacts as a helpful and caring intervention.
• Findings offer practical guidance for implementing effective Caring Contacts programs.