A group of psychology researchers at Florida State University have developed a simple computer-based approach to treating anxiety sensitivity, something that could have major implications for veterans and other groups who are considered at risk for suicide.
"We have been using computer-delivered interventions for many years now in an effort to more efficiently deliver effective treatments," said psychology Professor Brad Schmidt, director of the Anxiety and Behavioral Health Clinic. "This study gives us evidence that a brief intervention may help to prevent suicide risk."
The study, appearing in the December issue of the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology by the American Psychological Association, shows how Schmidt developed a treatment by focusing more on fears of losing control of one's thoughts and sanity.
The team established a fully computerized treatment that does not require a therapist or other mental health specialist, only access to a computer.
The new intervention, called the Cognitive Anxiety Sensitivity Treatment, or CAST, is a 45-minute treatment that contains videos, interactive features and true-false questions designed to make sure the patient understands the topic.
The program explains that symptoms such as racing thoughts, the inability to concentrate and others are not dangerous and not an indication that something bad is about to happen. It also provides users with exercises that they can practice to improve responses to stress and anxiety.
[For more of this story go to http://medicalxpress.com/news/...anxiety-suicide.html]
Comments (0)