Changes in suicidal ideation following cognitive processing therapy in a VA residential treatment program

Stayton, L. E., Martin, C. E., Pease, J. L., & Chard, K. M. (2019). Changes in suicidal ideation following cognitive processing therapy in a VA residential treatment program. Military Psychology, 31(4), 326-334. https://doi.org/10.1080/08995605.2019.1630230

With a daily average of 20 deaths by suicide among Veterans (p. 326), it is important to understand the risk factors that contribute to suicide. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is prevalent among Veterans, has been linked to increased levels of suicidal ideation (i.e., thoughts about or plans for suicide). Evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive processing therapy, have been used in residential facilities to address PTSD symptomology; thus, suppositions were that this therapy might also address suicidal ideation. This study examined the impact of participation in cognitive processing therapy within the context of a residential treatment program on suicidal ideation, and assessed whether treatment outcomes were similar among Veterans based on various sociodemographic factors, including sex, age, race/ ethnicity, and marital status. 303 Veterans completed pre-, mid-, and post-assessments measuring suicidal ideation over the course of a seven-week residential treatment program. Findings suggest that suicidal ideation decreased across the course of treatment and was similarly effective for Veterans with varying sociodemographic characteristics.

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