Qnnections for Suicidal Ideation
(Qnnections Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byCindy Chang, PsyD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?Despite the high risk of suicide among LGBTQ+ Veterans, there is currently no suicide-focused intervention for this population. This study will refine and pilot Qnnections, a novel group-based suicide prevention intervention that aims to increase social connection and functioning in this population. The project will involve Veterans with lived experience in further refining Qnnections, and then will examine feasibility and acceptability of Qnnections and of study procedures in a pilot randomized clinical trial.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for LGBTQ+ Veterans experiencing depression, social isolation, or suicidal thoughts. Participants should be interested in a group-based intervention aimed at increasing social connections tailored to their unique experiences.

Inclusion Criteria

Veterans who report past-month active suicidal ideation (C-SSRS [Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale] or past-3-month suicidal behavior

Willing to complete or update safety plan

LGBTQ+ or other minoritized gender or sexual identity

+1 more

Exclusion Criteria

Imminent psychiatric hospitalization

Current or planned participation in residential/intensive outpatient program that would interfere study participation

Has participated in any previous parts of the study

+2 more

Participant Groups

The study tests 'Qnnections', a new group suicide prevention program against Enhanced Usual Care. It focuses on improving social ties and functioning among LGBTQ+ Veterans at risk of suicide.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: QnnectionsExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

A novel group-based suicide prevention intervention that augments standard VA mental health services for LGBTQ+ Veterans with current suicidal thoughts or recent suicidal behavior. Veterans will also receive safety planning and referrals.

Group II: Enhanced Usual CareActive Control1 Intervention

The active control condition includes: 1) VA Safety Planning Intervention and 2) referrals to VA and non-VA services relevant to the individual.