Effectiveness of online self-help for suicidal thoughts: results of a randomised controlled trial.
<h4>Background</h4>Many people with suicidal thoughts do not receive treatment. The Internet can be used to reach more people in need of support.<h4>Objective</h4>To test the effectiveness of unguided online self-help to reduce suicidal thoughts.<h4>Method</h4>236...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | article |
| Language: | EN |
| Published: |
Public Library of Science (PLoS)
2014
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doaj.org/article/2057f1c8178d48f68d24d301e6fca67d |
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| Summary: | <h4>Background</h4>Many people with suicidal thoughts do not receive treatment. The Internet can be used to reach more people in need of support.<h4>Objective</h4>To test the effectiveness of unguided online self-help to reduce suicidal thoughts.<h4>Method</h4>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.<h4>Results</h4>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.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Although effect sizes were small, the reach of the internet could enable this intervention to help many people reduce their suicidal thoughts.<h4>Trial registration</h4>Netherlands Trial Register NTR1689. |
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