Suicide-Focused Group Therapy for Veterans

Abstract

The U.S. military and veteran populations are presently at increased risk for suicide when compared to demographically matched cohorts in the general population. Previous research suggests that the constructs of perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness may contribute to the desire for death in these populations. Method: In this article we describe a post-hospitalization group therapy designed specifically for suicidal veterans that utilizes a collaborative approach to foster relationships and interpersonal contributions between group members and focuses on the specific factors underlying each individual's suicidal ideation. Results: Preliminary results from the existing post-hospitalization group therapy suggest that the intervention is acceptable to clients and providers and feasible to deliver in a real-world clinical setting. Conclusion: This clinical care-transition model provides a potentially cost-effective and meaningful suicide-specific intervention for the critical post-discharge risk period.