WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2024 (HealthDay News) — Therapy delivered via telehealth may reduce a person’s risk of suicide, a new study reports.

Cognitive behavioral therapy reduces suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts even when administered for a short time via telehealth, according to findings published Nov. 12 in the journal Open JAMA Network.

That’s good news, given that therapies these days are more often delivered virtually, the researcher said. Justin Boulangerclinical psychologist at Ohio State University.

“The impetus for this research question was the almost overnight shift from primarily in-person therapy appointments to primarily virtual therapy appointments following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Baker in an Ohio State press release. “Historically, high-risk patients were considered unsuitable candidates for virtual healthcare, due to risk and liability concerns. »

For the study, researchers randomly assigned 96 U.S. adults to receive either:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy focused on suicide, which taught them how to manage and modify distressing emotions and negative thoughts

• Present-focused therapy, which helps participants respond to stress in their lives

Present-focused therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing depression and suicidal thoughts, the researchers noted.

But in this study, cognitive behavioral therapy outperformed present-focused therapy in reducing suicide attempts among telehealth patients, the researchers found.

Still, both therapies reduced suicidal thoughts in patients, the results showed.

“For those who suffer from suicidal thoughts and behaviors, we have good, tested treatments that will result in significant reduction in symptoms and improvement in quality of life,” the researcher said. Craig Bryandirector of the suicide prevention program at Ohio State University.

“Even with relaxed restrictions, many therapists are retaining some of their telehealth practice post-pandemic,” Bryan added. “This study has the potential to increase access to necessary evidence-based treatments for people living in rural and hard-to-reach areas.” »

If you or a loved one are experiencing a suicidal crisis or emotional distress, call .

More information

The National Institute of Mental Health has more at suicide prevention.

SOURCE: Ohio State University, press release, November 12, 2024