The Hope Institute: Outcome Data for a New Suicide Treatment Model

Suicide remains a growing concern in the United States, with a 35% increase since 2000. Leading experts emphasize the urgent need for effective, suicide-specific treatments. This retrospective study followed a quality improvement design, using a convenience sample and providing transparency of the treatment being provided. Pre- and post- test scores on the Suicide Status Form (SSF-4) were utilized to evaluate suicidal resolution outcomes of The Hope Institute (THI), a novel approach to outpatient treatment for suicidal ideation. THI was built upon evidence-based models, developing a structured approach to suicide treatment that can be implemented and replicated in an outpatient setting.

The study sample consisted of 58 participants with a mean age of 20 years. Notably, 31% of participants had no prior mental health diagnosis, reinforcing the need for interventions that address suicide risk beyond traditional psychiatric models.

Results demonstrated significant reductions in SSF-4 Core Assessment during treatment, with a large effect size (t(57) = 8.1, p < .001, d = 1.02). Participants achieved resolution in an average of 5.6 weeks, with 98% successfully completing treatment and 5% experiencing readmission to THI or another facility within 90 days. The timeline reflects the adaptability of THI, with trained clinicians collaborating with patients to determine treatment frequency and focus on a patient-centered, evidence-based, approach to foster patient autonomy and suicidal resolution.

Individuals in the sample demonstrated statistically significant pre/post improvements in reductions in suicide risk scores, warranting additional research on THI program effectiveness in larger community samples.