Year: 2001 Source: BMJ, v.323, no.7305, (July 21, 2001), p.1-5 SIEC No: 20010919

This study explored the effects of a brief psychological intervention for patients after deliberate self-poisoning compared with usual treatment. 119 adults were included in this community based study. 4 sessions of therapy were delivered in the patient’s home. Control patients received treatment as usual which, in most cases, consisted of referral back to their general practitioner. Participants randomized to the intervention had a significantly greater reduction in suicidal ideation at 6-month follow-up compared with those in the control group. They were more satisfied with their treatment & were less likely to report repeated attempts to harm themselves. Brief psychodynamic interpersonal therapy may be a valuable treatment after deliberate self-poisoning. (23 refs.)