Brief Intervention for Self-Harm in Veterans
(STRIVe Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines a new treatment for veterans who have engaged in nonsuicidal self-injury, which involves intentional self-harm without the intent to end life. The goal is to determine if a brief intervention, specifically the Treatment for Self-Injurious Behaviors, can reduce self-harming behaviors and enhance daily life. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the new treatment or standard mental health referrals. Veterans who have intentionally harmed themselves at least twice in the last month and can communicate in English may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides veterans with a unique opportunity to contribute to important research that could improve treatment options for self-injury.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
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.
What prior data suggests that this brief intervention is safe for Veterans?
Research has shown that treatments for self-harming behaviors, such as the Treatment for Self-Injurious Behaviors (T-SIB), have been tested for safety and effectiveness. One study with 173 teenagers found that treatments using Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A) significantly reduced self-harm and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) without major side effects, indicating the treatment is generally well-tolerated.
Another review of various therapies that consider social and psychological factors found that these treatments often lead to fewer self-harm incidents. Although most studies focus on young people, these results provide some reassurance about safety.
While the specific treatment in this trial, T-SIB, isn't detailed in these sources, the general approach has proven to be safe and effective. This suggests that participants can expect a treatment that is both safe and potentially helpful in reducing self-harming behaviors.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the trial for Treatment for Self-Injurious Behaviors (T-SIB) because it offers a structured therapeutic approach specifically tailored for veterans dealing with self-harm, a group that often has unique challenges and needs. Unlike standard treatments that may primarily focus on medication or general therapy, T-SIB consists of nine targeted sessions designed to directly address self-injurious behaviors. This method offers the potential for more immediate, focused support, which could lead to quicker and more sustainable improvement in participants.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for reducing self-injurious behaviors in Veterans?
Research shows that people sometimes harm themselves to cope with their emotions. In this trial, participants will be randomized to receive either the Treatment for Self-Injurious Behaviors (T-SIB) program or Treatment As Usual. The T-SIB program has shown promise in managing these actions. Studies have found that similar programs can reduce self-harm by teaching skills for better emotional control. Early results suggest that T-SIB can decrease the frequency of self-injury and improve overall mental health. This treatment aims to help Veterans by addressing the unique challenges they face with self-injury.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tate F Halverson, PhD
Principal Investigator
Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Veterans aged 18 or older who have harmed themselves on purpose at least twice in the past month without suicidal intent. Participants must be fluent in English and able to consent to the study. Those with a history of psychosis, mania, hypomania, or current high risk of suicide or homicide are not eligible.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive nine sessions of Treatment for Self-Injurious Behaviors (T-SIB) to reduce NSSI and improve psychosocial functioning
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Treatment As Usual
- Treatment for Self-Injurious Behaviors
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor