RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06481033

Suicide Specific Rumination in Veterans

Reducing Suicide-Specific Rumination in Veterans Using Real-time Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Neurofeedback

Sponsor

VA Office of Research and Development

Enrollment

15 participants

Start Date

Aug 1, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Depression Suicide Mood Disorders

Summary

Few treatments target core features of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in Veterans. Real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging neurofeedback can provide information regarding brain activation associated with suicide-specific rumination, defined as a "repetitive mental fixation on one's suicidal thoughts and intentions." The goal of this feasibility study is for Veterans to learn strategies for modulating activity within brain regions that have been demonstrated to contribute to the maintenance of rumination, as they receive neurofeedback feedback signals from the brain.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is looking at how the brain processes thoughts related to suicide in veterans. Using brain imaging (MRI), researchers want to understand a specific type of thinking pattern called "suicide-specific rumination" — repeatedly dwelling on thoughts about suicide — to develop better treatments. **You may be eligible if...** - You are a U.S. military veteran between 18–65 years old - You score 10 or higher on a scale measuring how often you dwell on thoughts of suicide - You are currently engaged in mental health treatment - Your psychiatric medications have been stable for some time - If applicable, you have a negative pregnancy test on MRI scan days **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a major medical or neurological condition that could affect brain imaging - You have moderate or severe traumatic brain injury - You are currently at imminent risk of suicide (as determined by a clinician) - You have a current psychotic disorder - You have metal implants or other MRI contraindications Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALReal Time fMRI Neurofeedback

The proposed pilot study is designed to collect feasibility and acceptability data regarding the utility of real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-fMRI) feedback in reducing suicide-specific rumination in veterans. Fifteen veterans will receive 2 rt-fMRI neurofeedback sessions while attempting to alter connectivity in brain regions that play a role in rumination. Pre- and post-treatment assessments of suicide, disability, functional impairment, and quality of life will be collected.