HIV Suicide Prevention With AI-DBT
Piloting AI-Delivered Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Suicide Prevention in Older Patients Living With HIV
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
50 participants
Jan 7, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
One in four older persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) report at least one suicide attempt in their lifetime, and the risk for death by suicide is 100 times higher in PLWHA than in the general population. Currently, there are no behavioral interventions that specifically address suicide prevention for older PLWHA, despite their unique biopsychosocial and structural risk factors. Through this work, investigators will adapt Dialectical Behavior Therapy, an evidence-based intervention for suicide prevention, for patients with PLWHA to be delivered by an AI-powered conversational Agent developed by our industry partner, Empower Health. Investigators will then pilot test the feasibility, usability, acceptability and preliminary efficacy to improve self-efficacy to manage negative emotions in n=50 older adults living with HIV/AIDS.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Aged 50+
- evidence of suicide risk as defined by at least one of the following: PHQ-9 suicide item \> 0, Ask Suicide Questions (ASQ, an NIMH-supported suicide risk screener with a version tailored for primary care) \> 0, expression of suicidal thoughts to the provider during appointment, a suicide attempt in the past year, or PHQ-9 total score ≥ 8,
- ability to read and communicate fluently in English or Spanish
- not at imminent risk for suicide (does not have significant intent to die within 48 hours)
- has a smartphone capable of texting and accessing the internet.
Exclusion Criteria1
- deemed clinically inappropriate to participate because of severe psychosis, severe substance use, or severe cognitive deficits that would interfere with their comprehending study and intervention material.
Interventions
Participants will receive 14, 5 minute videos delivered 2x/week that describe DBT skills and tools. They will also receive the option of engaging in coaching sessions.
Locations(2)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.
NCT07339189