Randomized Suicide Prevention Trial Using ASSIP and ACT in Suicide Attempters

Summary

This is a randomized controlled trial that aims to compare the effectiveness of two psychological treatment approaches: the Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program (ASSIP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The study seeks to determine which of these two methods is more effective in reducing suicidal ideation and mental pain in individuals who have recently attempted suicide.

In this study, 60 participants with a history of suicide attempts will be randomly assigned to three groups. One group will receive ASSIP in addition to treatment as usual (TAU), the second group will receive ACT alongside TAU, and the third group will be a control group receiving TAU only. The results will be assessed using the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSSI) and the Orbach \& Mikulincer Mental Pain Scale (OMMP) at three stages: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up.

The ultimate goal of this research is to provide valuable insights into the comparative effectiveness of ASSIP and ACT interventions for suicide attempters and to contribute to evidence-based suicide prevention strategies. The findings are expected to inform clinical practice and guide future research in this field.

Conditions

• Suicide
• Suicide Ideation

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program (ASSIP)

This is a brief, structured, patient-centered therapy consisting of three to four face-to-face sessions. Each session typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. A fourth session may be added if clinically necessary.

BEHAVIORAL

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

This intervention uses the "ACT for Life" protocol, which is designed to maximize recovery after suicidal crises. It consists of three components delivered over three to six individual sessions. The average number of sessions is four to five, with each session lasting approximately 60 minutes.

OTHER

Treatment as Usual (TAU)

Treatment as usual (TAU) is not a structured intervention within this study. It may include standard outpatient or inpatient services, pharmacotherapy, or no structured treatment, depending on individual circumstances.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Ardakan University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Azadeh Choobforoushzadeh, PhD · Ardakan University

• Marjan Fathi, Postdoctoral · Iran University of Medical Sciences

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-08-01

Primary Completion

2025-09-21

Completion

2025-10-31

Countries

• Iran

Study Locations