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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2014 Feb 27;9(2):e90118.
doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090118. eCollection 2014.

Effectiveness of online self-help for suicidal thoughts: results of a randomised controlled trial

Bregje A J van Spijker  1 , Annemieke van Straten  2 , Ad J F M Kerkhof  2
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Effectiveness of online self-help for suicidal thoughts: results of a randomised controlled trial

Bregje A J van Spijker et al. PLoS One. .

Abstract

Background: Many people with suicidal thoughts do not receive treatment. The Internet can be used to reach more people in need of support.

Objective: To test the effectiveness of unguided online self-help to reduce suicidal thoughts.

Method: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusions: Although effect sizes were small, the reach of the internet could enable this intervention to help many people reduce their suicidal thoughts.

Trial registration: Netherlands Trial Register NTR1689.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing Interests: BvS, AK and AvS are authors of the web-based treatment program described in this manuscript. BvS and AK receive royalties from an adapted paper version of the self-help program described in this manuscript under the title “Piekeren over zelfdoding” (in Dutch), published by Boom: Amsterdam (2012). This does not alter the authors’ adherence to all the PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Participant flow through trial.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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