Treating repetitive suicidal intrusions using eye movements: study protocol for a multicenter randomized clinical...

Area of Science:

• Clinical Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Suicide is a significant public health concern, with the link between suicidal thoughts and actions remaining unclear.
• Many patients with depression or bipolar disorder experience intrusive suicidal thoughts and imagery.
• Working memory interventions, like dual tasks, show potential in reducing the vividness of intrusive imagery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an Eye Movement Dual Task (EMDT) intervention for reducing suicidal imagery in depressed patients.
• To explore moderators and mediators influencing the effects of EMDT.
• To assess the cost-effectiveness of EMDT as an add-on treatment.

Main Methods:

• A multi-center randomized clinical trial comparing EMDT plus usual care (n=45) against usual care alone (n=45).
• Data collection through online questionnaires, a semi-structured interview (Intrusion Interview), and computer tasks.
• Primary outcome: frequency and intrusiveness of suicidal imagery. Secondary outcomes: suicidal behavior, ideation, depression severity, psychological symptoms, rumination, and hopelessness.

Main Results:

• This section is not applicable as the abstract describes a study protocol, not results.
• The study aims to measure the primary outcome of frequency and intrusiveness of suicidal imagery.
• Secondary outcomes include suicidal behavior, ideation, and various psychological symptom measures.

Conclusions:

• If effective, EMDT could be integrated into standard treatments.
• The intervention aims to decrease the frequency and vividness of suicidal imagery.
• This could be a crucial step in preventing the transition from suicidal ideation to suicidal behavior.