Smartphone-Delivered Treatment for Suicidal Ideation

This trial tests a smartphone treatment called Therapeutic Evaluative Conditioning for Suicide (TEC-S) to help reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Researchers aim to determine if this app-based approach is safe, acceptable, and effective for individuals with frequent and recent suicidal thoughts. Participants will use either an active version of the app or a similar inactive version for comparison. This trial suits adults in the Boston area who have recently experienced suicidal thoughts and have access to a smartphone and Wi-Fi. As an unphased trial, it offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could shape future treatments for suicidal thoughts.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that Therapeutic Evaluative Conditioning for Suicide (TEC-S), a smartphone-delivered treatment, is generally safe for users. Studies have found that TEC-S can significantly reduce self-harming behaviors and suicidal thoughts without causing serious side effects. For instance, one study reported a 32% to 40% reduction in self-cutting and a 21% to 77% decrease in suicide planning over a month. These findings suggest that TEC-S is well-tolerated, with no major negative effects reported, making it a promising option for safely managing suicidal thoughts.¹²³⁴⁵

Most treatments for suicidal ideation involve therapy sessions and medications that aim to stabilize mood and reduce depressive symptoms. However, the Therapeutic Evaluative Conditioning for Suicide (TEC-S) is unique because it leverages smartphone technology to deliver its intervention. This method offers the potential for immediate accessibility and convenience, allowing individuals to engage with the treatment anytime and anywhere. Researchers are excited about this approach because it could provide a scalable and cost-effective solution that reaches people who might not have access to traditional therapy. Additionally, by using evaluative conditioning techniques, TEC-S aims to address the underlying cognitive patterns associated with suicidal thoughts, which could offer a novel mechanism of action compared to existing treatments.

Research shows that the smartphone app, Therapeutic Evaluative Conditioning for Suicide (TEC-S), has promising results. In earlier studies, the app reduced self-harm by 32% to 40% and lowered plans for suicide by 21% to 77% over a month. However, these studies did not find a significant impact on directly reducing suicidal thoughts. Additionally, the positive effects did not persist one month after the treatment ended. In this trial, participants will receive either the active TEC-S or an inactive version as a placebo comparator. While these early results are encouraging, they suggest that TEC-S might be more effective at reducing certain behaviors rather than suicidal thoughts.¹²⁴⁵⁶