Efficacy of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents at High Risk for Suicide: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Effect of 3 Forms of Early Intervention for Young People With Borderline Personality Disorder: The MOBY Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Clinical trials have neither focused on early intervention for psychosocial impairment nor on the contribution of components of borderline personality disorder (BPD) treatment beyond individual psychotherapy.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of 3 early interventions for BPD of differing complexity.

Design, Settings, and Participants

This single-blinded randomized clinical trial recruited young people between March 17, 2011, and September 30, 2015, into parallel groups. The study took place at 2 government-funded mental health services for young people in Melbourne, Australia. Inclusion criteria were age 15 to 25 years (inclusive), recent DSM-IV-TR BPD diagnosis, and never receiving evidence-based BPD treatment. A total of 139 participants were randomized (pool of 876; 70 declined, 667 excluded), balanced for sex, age, and depressive symptomatology. Data analysis completed May 2020.

Interventions

(1) The Helping Young People Early (HYPE) dedicated BPD service model for young people, combined with weekly cognitive analytic therapy (CAT); (2) HYPE combined with a weekly befriending psychotherapy control condition; and (3) a general youth mental health service (YMHS) model, combined with befriending. Therefore, the 3 treatment arms were HYPE + CAT, HYPE + befriending, and YMHS + befriending. Participants were randomly assigned both to 1 treatment arm (in a 1:1:1 ratio) and to a clinician.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Psychosocial functioning, measured with the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems Circumplex Version and the Social Adjustment Scale Self-report.

Results

One hundred twenty-eight participants (104 [81.3%] were female; mean [SD] age, 19.1 [2.8] years; HYPE + CAT: 40 [31.3%]; HYPE + befriending: 45 [35.2%]; YMHS + befriending: 43 [33.6%]) who provided postbaseline data were included in the intent-to-treat analysis. Regardless of group, from baseline to 12 months, there was a mean of 19.3% to 23.8% improvement in the primary outcomes and 40.7% to 52.7% for all secondary outcomes, except severity of substance use and client satisfaction. The latter remained high across all time points. Planned comparisons (YMHS + befriending vs HYPE; HYPE + CAT vs befriending) showed that neither the service model nor the psychotherapy intervention was associated with a superior rate of change in psychosocial functioning by the 12-month primary end point. The HYPE service model was superior to YMHS + befriending for treatment attendance (median [IQR], 22 [19] vs 3 [16] contacts; median duration, 200 [139.5] vs 94 [125] days) and treatment completion (44 of 92 [47.8%] vs 9 of 47 [19.2%]). HYPE + CAT was superior to befriending for treatment attendance (median [IQR], 12 [16.5] vs 3 [9.8] sessions) and treatment completion (24 of 46 [52.2%] vs 29 of 93 [31.2%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial of 3 interventions for young people with BPD, effective early intervention was not reliant on availability of specialist psychotherapy but did require youth-oriented clinical case management and psychiatric care. A dedicated early intervention BPD service model (HYPE), with or without individual psychotherapy, achieved greater treatment attendance and completion, making it more likely to meet service user, family, and community expectations of care.

Trial Registration

anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12610000100099.

Evidence-based practice in cognitive-behavioural therapy

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a practical, goal-focused approach that helps children understand the relationship between their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. The aim is to identify the dysfunctional and distorted cognitions associated with their psychological problems and to create more functional and balanced cognitive patterns that create less emotional distress and more helpful behaviours. CBT has strong evidence as an effective intervention for children and adolescents with emotional problems. The benefits for children with physical health and chronic conditions appear promising, although further research is required to substantiate these gains.

Effectiveness of the family-based model of dialectical behavior therapy for both suicidal adolescents and young adults in an academic medical center

BACKGROUND

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an effective approach to decreasing suicidal behaviors; the adapted, family-based model for adolescents (through 18 years old; DBT-A) also demonstrates efficacy. Data on higher dropout rates based on age, initial research on DBT with young adults in the community, and the theory that underlies DBT suggest that adaptations may also be appropriate for young adults. This study examines the effectiveness of DBT-A, presents preliminary data on delivering DBT-A to young adults (ages 18-26), and compares clinical characteristics, service utilization, and outcomes to adolescent clients (ages 13-17) to guide clinical considerations and future research on implementing DBT-A.

METHODS

Data were collected from a DBT-A clinic and included results from semi-structured diagnostic interviews, chart review, and scores on self-report measures. The Suicide Ideation Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), given at program entry, after completion of one rotation through the skills modules, and at graduation, were used to evaluate outcomes. Outcomes were benchmarked against prior DBT-A trials. Adolescents' and young adults' clinical characteristics, service utilization, and outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

The effect size observed was smaller than in efficacy trials. Few differences were observed between teens (n = 87) and young adults (n = 45). Young adults were more likely to have participated in intensive services before DBT-A. They participated in fewer family sessions and graduated in fewer months compared to teens.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the use of the family-based model of DBT for suicidal teens and young adults although future research is needed to improve the effectiveness of this model when implemented in real-world settings.

Radical Acceptance of Reality: Putting DBT®-A Skill Groups Online During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

INTRODUCTION

Emotion dysregulation is a common challenge pertaining to numerous psychiatric disorders in adolescence and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT®-A) has been shown to be an effective treatment, especially in the reduction of self-harm and suicidality. Measures in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic set strict limits on physical contacts with patients. In order to continuously provide evidence-based specialized care to patients suffering from emotion dysregulation, we offered two online DBT®-A skill groups in a video-group-call format.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed at assessing our online DBT®-A skills groups, collect according up- and downsides, and form a basis for advancement of this form of treatment provision. Also, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients was assessed.

METHODS

A physical DBT®-A skill group was switched to a video-group-call format and a second group was initiated de novo online. After five sessions, patients engaged in structured group discussions to reflect experiences. Discussion content was analyzed via Inductive Category Formation within the Framework of Qualitative Content Analysis.

RESULTS

Patients unanimously found the COVID-19 pandemic challenging, but also reported differentially on its impact. Downsides were balanced by subjective "gains" in time and a perceived reduction in stress. Technical problems of the online format were discussed, but did not limit the positive experience of still receiving treatment. Patients of both online DBT®-A skill groups valued the offer, felt connected, and reported benefits from the treatment. The transition group additionally discussed changes in structure and content of the group sessions after the switch to online meetings and reflected differential functions of the group.

DISCUSSION

Although the sample size is small, and conclusions are drawn from Inductive Qualitative Content Analysis, the presented results are of interest. In our investigation, video-group-calls were both safe and beneficial for patients. This alternative to physical meetings is not only interesting for further waves of the current pandemic but also for service provision in remote areas with limited access to specialized care. Further research is needed to challenge and refine our results and to explore extensions to "basic" video-group-calls, such as "break-out sessions," blended therapy, or real-time supervision within an online session.

Building on the past 50 years, not starting over: A balanced interpretation of meta-analyses, reviews, and commentaries on treatments for suicide and self-injury

Several recent meta-analyses on interventions for self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs) have been conducted. The primary finding of these meta-analyses is that the observed effects of interventions for SITBs are generally quite small and are far from where we need to be as a field. Although we agree with these general findings, we disagree, however, with many of the overly bleak conclusions drawn from these findings that emphasize creating new treatments while discounting the benefit of improving existing interventions and the decades of research that were involved in creating them. Accordingly, we offer three future directions with promise to build upon and improve our existing treatments, while we simultaneously work to develop new ones: (1) determine which intervention(s) are needed for which person and at which time, (2) conduct more research on intervention length before concluding that brief interventions are just as efficacious as longer ones, and (3) evaluate the potential of comprehensive models of suicide prevention as a more efficacious alternative to any one individual intervention.

A qualitative exploration of adolescents’ experiences of digital Dialectical Behaviour Therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic

The UK government implemented national social-distancing measures in response to the global COVID19 pandemic. As a result, many appointments in the National Health Service (NHS) took place virtually, including psychological interventions in out-patient settings. This study explored the experiences of adolescents participating in a dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT-A) programme via teletherapy (i.e. via video or telephone call) in a Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). Thirteen adolescents with emotion dysregulation and related problems completed an online qualitative survey about their experience and acceptance of DBT-A delivered virtually. Thematic analysis was conducted on the survey data and generated three over-arching themes: (1) sense of loss; (2) feeling uncontained; and (3) benefits of virtual DBT. These over-arching themes were composed of eight subthemes (‘loss of connection with group and therapist’; ‘loss of skills-building opportunities’; ‘limited privacy’; ‘lack of safe therapy space’; ‘difficult endings’; ‘home comforts’; ‘convenience and accessibility’; and ‘easier to participate with others’). This study suggests that adolescents doing virtual DBT-A need approaches that acknowledge and address the additional relational, emotional and practical challenges of online therapy while maintaining fidelity to the evidence-based treatment model. Suggestions for further research and preliminary practice guidelines are discussed.

Key learning aims

(1)

Suicidal ideation and behavior in youth in low- and middle-income countries: A brief review of risk factors and implications for prevention

Although global rates of suicide have dropped in the last 30 years, youth in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to be highly represented in suicide statistics yet underrepresented in research. In this review we present the epidemiology of suicide, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts among youth in LMICs. We also describe population-level (attitudes toward suicide, socioeconomic, and societal factors) and individual-level clinical and psychosocial risk factors, highlighting specific considerations pertaining to youth in LMICs. These specific considerations in risk factors within this population can inform how multi-level prevention strategies may be targeted to meet their specific needs. Prevention and intervention strategies relying on the stepped-care framework focusing on population-, community-, and individual level targets while considering locally- and culturally relevant practices are key in LMICs. In addition, systemic approaches favoring school-based and family-based interventions are important among youth. Cross-culturally adapted multimodal prevention strategies targeting the heterogeneity that exists in healthcare systems, suicide rates, and risk factors in these countries should be accorded a high priority to reduce the burden of suicide among youth in LMICs.

Suicide on college campuses: a public health framework and case illustration

Suicide-related behavior (SRB) is a growing mental health concern on college campuses. We argue that causes of this rising trend go beyond student stress, to include outdated campus policies, overburdened counseling center staffing, and untapped targets for prevention efforts. We outline the social-ecological model applied to suicide and related public health problems. Such a viewpoint provides an example road map to redress suicide and related risk factors (e.g., violence, substance abuse) through multiple levels of prevention-focused programing. Using our SAMHSA-funded campus suicide prevention programmatic approach as a case illustration, we proffer lessons and guidelines for the implementation of a social-ecological suicide prevention program (SESPP). Emphasis is placed on review of evidence-informed prevention programs, utilization of interdisciplinary prevention teams, need for rigorous program evaluation, and consideration of the unique demography of each campus.

Review of family-based treatments from 2010 to 2019 for suicidal ideation and behavior

Suicide ideation and behavior are pervasive public health issues. Given that positive interpersonal relationships can be a protective factor against suicide risk, we conducted a systematic review to examine peer-reviewed publications from 2010 to 2019 that included empirical data, tested an intervention with at least some family component, and included a suicide-related outcome measure. We reviewed and synthesized findings from 22 articles covering 7 intervention categories with 12 interventions to examine the treatment components and the quality of evidence to support them. Using Southam-Gerow and Prinstein's (Child Adolesc Psychol 43:16, 2014) guidelines, we identified two well-established intervention categories that met the highest standards for interventions and three probably efficacious intervention categories. All interventions found focused solely on suicide risk in adolescent populations. More studies are needed for adult populations and to explore the role of family moderators and mediators to test whether suicide outcomes are reduced by improvement in the family environment.

[Reduction of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) in Adolescents with Borderline Personality Organization Treated with TFP-A]

This study examines whether transference-focused psychotherapy for adolescents (TFP-A) in a dayclinic setting increases the capability to regulate affects and decreases self-destructive behavior in adolescents with borderline personality organization in comparison to treatment as usual (TAU). A total of 120 adolescents consecutively presenting to the dayclinic were allocated to either TFP-A or TAU. They were assessed for aggression, irritability, depression, self-harm, internalizing behavior and pathological personality traits at baseline and after twelve weeks. TFP-A was more effective than TAU in reducing self-harm. Aggression and irritability was improved within the treatment group. These results can be explained by an improvement in affect regulation through a treatment with TFP-A in a dayclinic setting. Further research is necessary in order to assess whether TFP-A reduces self-harm, aggressive behavior and irritability from a long-term perspective and whether these exploratory results can be replicated in independent samples.

Suicide Risk in Youth and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: a Review of the Literature and Clinical Recommendations for Prevention

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The manuscript reviews the extant literature on suicide-related thoughts and behaviors among youth and young adults with pediatric diabetes. This evidence is presented within the context of current theories of the etiology of suicidal behavior to highlight how diabetes may contribute to suicide risk, and to support providers in understanding the interplay between pediatric diabetes and suicide risk. The manuscript also reviews evidence-based approaches to suicide prevention suitable for use in pediatric healthcare settings, with suggestions for their application to this unique population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several recent studies identify heightened rates of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide among youth and young adults with pediatric diabetes, as compared with their peers without diabetes. Evidence-based suicide prevention approaches frequently emphasize the importance of reducing suicidal youths' access to potentially lethal means for suicidal behavior. This approach may require special considerations for youth with pediatric diabetes, due to their need to carry sufficient quantities of insulin and the dangers of inaccurate insulin dosing and/or overdose. Suggestions for suicide prevention for this population include risk screening as part of routine diabetes care, early prevention, education for youth and families, and provider awareness of risk factors, warning signs, and implications for diabetes care. Youth and young adults with diabetes reported elevated rates of suicide-related behaviors as compared with their peers without diabetes. Existing suicide prevention approaches may require substantial adaptation for use with youth and young adults with diabetes. Further research is needed to examine how to best prevent suicidal behaviors among this population.

A systematic review of dialectical behavior therapy mobile apps for content and usability

BACKGROUND

The gap between treatment need and treatment availability is particularly wide for individuals seeking Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mobile apps based on DBT may be useful in increasing access to care and augmenting in-person DBT. This review examines DBT based apps, with a specific focus on content quality and usability.

METHODS

All apps referring to DBT were identified in Google Play and iOS app stores and were systematically reviewed for app content and quality. The Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) was used to evaluate app usability and engagement.

RESULTS

A total of 21 free to download apps were identified. The majority of apps (71%) included a component of skills training, five apps included a diary card feature. Most (76.19%) apps were designed to function without help from a therapist. The average user "star" rating was 4.39 out of 5. The mean overall MARS score was 3.41, with a range of 2.15 to 4.59, and 71.43% were considered minimally 'acceptable,' as defined by a score of 3 or higher. The average star rating was correlated with the total MARS score (r = .51, p = .02). Estimates of app usage differed substantially between popular and unpopular apps, with the three most popular apps accounting for 89.3% of monthly active users.

CONCLUSIONS

While the present study identified many usable and engaging apps in app stores designed based on DBT, there are limited apps for clinicians. DBT based mobile apps should be carefully developed and clinically evaluated.

Advances in Research on Adolescent Suicide and a High Priority Agenda for Future Research

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for adolescents in the United States, yet remarkably little is known regarding risk factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), relatively few federal grants and scientific publications focus on STBs, and few evidence-based approaches to prevent or treat STBs are available. This "decade in review" article discusses five domains of recent empirical findings that span biological, environmental, and contextual systems and can guide future research in this high priority area: (1) the role of the central nervous system; (2) physiological risk factors, including the peripheral nervous system; (3) proximal acute stress responses; (4) novel behavioral and psychological risk factors; and (5) broader societal factors impacting diverse populations and several additional nascent areas worthy of further investigation.

[Ingestion of foreign bodies by young patients with borderline personality disorder]

Eight cases of young female patients with borderline personality disorder are reported. They presented between twice and 38 times for endoscopic extraction of ingested foreign bodies from the upper gastrointestinal tract. Thus, within a 3-year-period 265 foreign bodies were recovered at 143 endoscopies. Most frequently, spoon-handles of different lengths and broken fragments of china were extracted. Foreign bodies were almost always removed successfully and without complication. Only one knife firmly trapped between gastric fundus and antrum required a surgical gastrotomy. Depending on the type, size and number of the foreign bodies, the anticipated complexity of the endoscopic procedure and the reported fasting period approximately 40 percent of endoscopies were performed under airway protection by tracheal intubation. Despite considerable personal and material expenses most gastroenterologists, psychiatrists and surgeons advocate repeated foreign body extraction even in view of repetitive ingestion.

Beating Adolescent Self-Harm (BASH): a randomised controlled trial comparing usual care versus usual care plus a smartphone self-harm prevention app (BlueIce) in young adolescents aged 12-17 who self-harm: study protocol

INTRODUCTION

A mobile app, BlueIce, was codesigned with young people with a history of self-harm to provide them with more accessible and available evidence-based support at times of distress. A preliminary evaluation found that BlueIce was acceptable, safe and used by young people and helped to reduce self-harm. The present study is designed to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of adding BlueIce to usual Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a single-blind, randomised controlled trial comparing usual CAMHS care with usual care plus BlueIce. A total of 138 adolescents aged 12-17 with current or a history of self-harm will be recruited through the Oxford Health National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust via their CAMHS clinician. The primary outcome is self-harm at 12 weeks assessed using the Risk Taking and Self-Harm Inventory for Adolescents. Secondary outcomes include mood, anxiety, hopelessness, general behaviour, sleep and impact on everyday life at 12 weeks and 6 months. Health-related quality of life and healthcare resource utilisation data will be collected at baseline, 12 weeks and 6 months. Postuse interviews at 12 weeks will determine the acceptability, safety and usability of BlueIce.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the NHS South Central-Oxford B NHS Research Ethics Committee (19/SC/0212) and by the Health Research Authority (HRA) and Health and Care Research Wales. Findings will be disseminated in peer review open-access journals and at academic conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN10541045.

Targeting self-criticism in the treatment of nonsuicidal self-injury in dialectical behavior therapy for adolescents: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The Benefits and Barriers Model proposes both benefits and barriers associated with nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and that a negative association with the self plays a key role in the initial selection of and acute motivation for NSSI. The current investigation builds upon previous findings by assessing the added benefit of targeting self-criticism in the treatment of NSSI.

METHODS

Sample included 40 participants (30 females; M_age  = 14.92) enrolled in dialectical behavior therapy for adolescents within a partial hospitalization program. All study participants received dialectical behavior therapy for adolescents, and those randomized to the experimental condition received an additional brief cognitive intervention developed to decrease self-criticism.

RESULTS

There was no evidence of an indirect effect of targeting self-criticism upon NSSI at post-treatment via post-treatment self-criticism (b = -0.98, p = .543); however, there was evidence of a significant interaction between treatment condition and self-criticism at pretreatment in the prediction of NSSI at post-treatment (b = 0.33, p = .030). Analyses of simple slopes indicated the conditional direct effect of targeting self-criticism varied as a function of patient's level of self-criticism at the onset of treatment, such that individuals -1 SD below the mean (b = -5.76, p = .037) and at average pretreatment levels of self-criticism (b = -4.09, p = .042), but not + 1 SD above the mean (b = -2.42, p = .056), experienced fewer incidents of NSSI at post-treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this investigation support the added benefit of targeting self-criticism in the treatment of NSSI for adolescents.

Attachment-based family therapy: Theory, clinical model, outcomes, and process research

Attachment-based family therapy (ABFT; Diamond G.S. et al., 2014) is an empirically supported treatment designed to capitalize on the innate, biologically based, caregiving instinct and adolescent need for attachment security. This therapy is grounded in attachment and emotional processing theory and provides an interpersonal, process-oriented, trauma-informed approach to treating adolescents struggling with suicide and associated problems such as depression and trauma. ABFT offers a clear structure and road map to help therapists quickly address the attachment ruptures that lie at the core of family conflict, which can fuel adolescent distress. Several clinical trials and process studies have demonstrated empirical support for the model and its proposed mechanisms of change. In this paper, we provide an overview of the theories underlying the model, the clinical strategies that guide the treatment, the outcome research that demonstrates efficacy, and the process research that explores the proposed mechanisms of change.

Mindfulness and Behavior Change

Initiating and maintaining behavior change is key to the prevention and treatment of most preventable chronic medical and psychiatric illnesses. The cultivation of mindfulness, involving acceptance and nonjudgment of present-moment experience, often results in transformative health behavior change. Neural systems involved in motivation and learning have an important role to play. A theoretical model of mindfulness that integrates these mechanisms with the cognitive, emotional, and self-related processes commonly described, while applying an integrated model to health behavior change, is needed. This integrative review (1) defines mindfulness and describes the mindfulness-based intervention movement, (2) synthesizes the neuroscience of mindfulness and integrates motivation and learning mechanisms within a mindful self-regulation model for understanding the complex effects of mindfulness on behavior change, and (3) synthesizes current clinical research evaluating the effects of mindfulness-based interventions targeting health behaviors relevant to psychiatric care. The review provides insight into the limitations of current research and proposes potential mechanisms to be tested in future research and targeted in clinical practice to enhance the impact of mindfulness on behavior change.

Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Early Adolescence as a Predictor of Borderline Personality Disorder in Early Adulthood

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) typically has an onset in adolescence. Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) could be associated with its subsequent development. The aim of this study was to examine whether NSSI among adolescents in the community is associated with a risk for BPD in emerging adulthood. Sixty-nine adolescents (11-13 years old) with a history of NSSI and 61 matched controls were assessed for NSSI and then reassessed between ages 18 to 20 years. Findings showed that continuation of NSSI over time was associated with higher ratings of BPD symptomatology and greater impairment in psychosocial functioning. Both of these relations were mediated by deficits in emotion regulation. These results suggest that adolescents who engage in NSSI may need to be assessed for problems regulating emotions and to be provided with early interventions to help prevent continuation of NSSI.

A pilot study of dialectical behaviour therapy skills training for autistic adults

BACKGROUND

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common and lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder with the hallmark features of social impairment and restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Individuals with ASD often experience co-occurring mental health difficulties, some of which may obfuscate the ASD features themselves. Although there is a high need for mental health services for autistic adults, there are surprisingly few evidence-based treatments (EBTs) available; moreover, many mental health practitioners who are well-trained in EBTs shy away from treating autistic individuals due to lack of training in ASD.

AIMS

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of dialectical behaviour therapy skills training (DBT-ST) in a sample of autistic adults without intellectual disability.

METHOD

Sixteen adults with ASD were recruited from a treatment waiting list to enrol in this study, which included 24 weeks of DBT-ST delivered in a group setting. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed using retention and attendance data and a participant satisfaction questionnaire.

RESULTS

Retention (81.3%) and attendance data (mean 87.5%) provided support for the feasibility of this intervention. Overall satisfaction ratings were high (mean 4.5 out of 5), and participants reported that they felt that DBT-ST would probably be helpful for others with ASD (mean 4.5 out of 5).

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings provide preliminary evidence of (1) the feasibility of providing DBT-ST for autistic adults in community-based clinics, and (2) the perceived benefit of DBT-ST for this under-served population. Recommended modifications to the standard DBT-ST materials are discussed.

Burden and Treatment Satisfaction among Caregivers of Adolescents with Borderline Personality Disorder

Despite the fact that family involvement is encouraged in early interventions for borderline personality disorder (BPD), there is a limited knowledge on the experience of caring for adolescents with BPD. This is an exploratory retrospective study nested within a randomized controlled trial that compared mentalization-based treatment (MBT) in groups to treatment as usual for adolescents with BPD. Caregivers received six MBT-Parents sessions or standard care over one year. Three months after end of treatment (EOT), 75 caregivers (35 in MBT, 40 in TAU) filled out the Burden Assessment Scale, and 71 (34 in MBT, 37 in TAU) the Family Satisfaction Survey. The adolescents filled out the Borderline Personality Features Scale for Children at baseline and after twelve months at EOT. We tested whether caregiver demographics, adolescents' severity of BPD, treatment and adolescents' dropout from treatment predicted levels of caregiver burden and satisfaction with treatment. The caregivers reported high levels of burden on the BAS (M = 40.3, SD = 12.2). Our study suggests that higher BPD severity at EOT among the adolescents predicted caregiver burden (p = .03), whereas higher baseline BPD severity predicted satisfaction with treatment (p = .04) and that biological mothers could be more burdened than other types of caregivers but also might be more satisfied with treatment. Treatment and adolescents' dropout from treatment were not related to caregiver burden or satisfaction with treatment. To help inform future research and to devise appropriate interventions for caregivers and adolescents with BPD, it is important to identify possible predictors of caregiver burden. The results of this initial exploratory study indicate that caregivers (and particularly biological mothers) of adolescents with more severe levels of BPD could be particularly vulnerable toward feelings of burden and therefore are in need of support.

Autonomic nervous system activity and dialectical behavioral therapy outcome in adolescent borderline personality pathology

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate whether pre-treatment cardiac autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity, indexed by heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) predicts clinical outcome and therapy drop-outs in adolescents with borderline personality (BPD) pathology receiving dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT-A). We further tested for an association between changes in ANS function and clinical outcome over time. Traumatic experiences were considered as potential confounding factor.

METHODS

N = 43 (95.4% female, M_age = 15.5 years) adolescents fulfilling at least sub-threshold criteria for BPD (≥3) were investigated before and after outpatient DBT-A as well as at follow-up. N = 10 patients dropped out of treatment (<50% of treatment sessions). Latent growth curve models were used for analyses.

RESULTS

Greater pre-treatment resting HRV significantly predicted clinical improvement (decrease in BPD pathology/increase of global functioning) over time. Pre-treatment ANS activity was unrelated to treatment drop-out. Further, changes in ANS activity over treatment were associated with changes in clinical outcome.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first providing evidence that pre-treatment HRV predicts and is related to treatment response in adolescent borderline personality pathology. Implications for the use of ANS measures in clinical practice and directions for future research are discussed.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Suicidal Self-Harming Youth: Emotion Regulation, Mechanisms, and Mediators

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated mechanisms, mediation, and secondary/exploratory outcomes in our randomized controlled trial evaluating dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) compared to individual and group supportive therapy (IGST). We expand on previously reported results indicating a DBT advantage at posttreatment on planned suicide/self-harm outcomes, and greater self-harm remission (absence of self-harm, post hoc exploratory outcome) during active-treatment and follow-up periods.

METHOD

This was a multi-site randomized trial of 173 adolescents with prior suicide attempts, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Randomization was to 6 months of DBT or IGST, with outcomes monitored through 12 months. Youth emotion regulation was the primary mechanistic outcome.

RESULTS

Compared to IGST, greater improvements in youth emotion regulation were found in DBT through the treatment-period [t(498) = 2.36, p = .019] and 12-month study period (t(498) = 2.93, p = .004). Their parents reported using more DBT skills: posttreatment t(497) = 4.12, p < .001); 12-month follow-up t(497) = 3.71, p < .001). Mediation analyses predicted to self-harm remission during the 6- to 12-month follow-up, the prespecified outcome and only suicidality/self-harm variable with a significant DBT effect at follow-up (DBT 49.3%; IGST 29.7%, p = .013). Improvements in youth emotion regulation during treatment mediated the association between DBT and self-harm remission during follow-up (months 6-12, estimate 1.71, CI 1.01-2.87, p = .045). Youths in DBT reported lower substance misuse, externalizing behavior, and total problems at posttreatment/6 months, and externalizing behavior throughout follow-up/12 months.

CONCLUSION

Results support the significance of emotion regulation as a treatment target for reducing self-harm, and indicate a DBT advantage on substance misuse, externalizing behavior, and self-harm-remission, with 49.3% of youths in DBT achieving self-harm remission during follow-up.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Collaborative Adolescent Research on Emotions and Suicide; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT01528020.

Skills-homework completion and phone coaching as predictors of therapeutic change and outcomes in completers of a DBT intensive outpatient programme

OBJECTIVES

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) emphasizes generalization of skills to the patient's real-world context as a primary mechanism of change in treatment. To promote generalization, DBT includes weekly skills-focused homework assignments and as-needed phone coaching. Despite this central function of generalization in DBT, research on these treatment components is limited. The current study addresses this research gap by assessing the association of homework and phone coaching to DBT treatment outcomes.

DESIGN

A longitudinal study design explored the extent to which (a) completion of skills homework and (b) frequency of phone coaching were associated with therapeutic changes and treatment outcomes in a DBT intensive outpatient programme (DBT-IOP).

METHOD

Medical records and diary cards of 56 patients who had completed a four-month treatment cycle of DBT-IOP were reviewed and coded for proportion of skills homework completed, frequency of phone coaching calls, and reported urges for and engagement in suicide, non-suicidal self-injury, illicit or non-prescribed substance use, and alcohol use behaviours.

RESULTS

Completion of skills homework and frequency of phone coaching were significantly associated with (a) reduced urges for suicide, non-suicidal self-injury, illicit or non-prescribed substance use, and alcohol use from the beginning to end of treatment and (b) a lower likelihood of engaging in any of these behaviours during the final month of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that within a DBT programme modified for an intensive outpatient setting, skills homework and phone coaching may enhance therapeutic change and outcomes in target behaviours. These generalization methods appear to be important ingredients of DBT effectiveness.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

In dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), therapeutic skills homework and phone coaching are specifically designed to promote generalization of skills from the therapeutic context to the patient's real-world contexts. In a DBT intensive outpatient programme, patient engagement with therapeutic homework and phone coaching were associated with favourable therapeutic change and outcomes in target urges and behaviours. Clinicians may consider a patient's lack of homework completion and/or phone coaching to be early warning signs of poor therapeutic progress within dialectical behaviour therapy.

Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality for Teens: A Promising Frontline Intervention for Addressing Adolescent Suicidality

This pilot open trial examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality for teens (CAMS-4Teens) who presented to outpatient care with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Participants were 22 adolescents (13-17; 59% identified as female) with clinical elevations (≥7) on the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R). Primary outcomes were feasibility and acceptability. We also explored outcomes of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, as well as mixed effects modeling for weekly assessments of the Suicide Status Form (SSF) Core Assessment constructs. Our main implementation outcomes suggest that the intervention is acceptable, appropriate, and feasible to deliver. Clinicians were adherent to the model with high ratings of adherence. In addition, preliminary evaluation of suicidal thoughts and behaviors found a large effect size for reduction in suicidal thoughts. Benchmarking to other adolescent suicide specific interventions and the Collaborative Assessment of Management of Suicidality with adult populations provide promise that suicidal adolescent responses may be on par with established interventions. Findings from the study are preliminary in nature and intended to inform if CAMS with adolescents is a promising approach to engage and treat patient-defined "drivers" of suicide. The results suggest that a future investigation with power to detect significant change over another active intervention is warranted.

Efficacy and sustainability of dialectical behaviour therapy for inpatient adolescents: a follow-up study

Background

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment for adolescents targeting suicidal and non-suicidal self-injurious behaviours. Research supports DBT's efficacy in inpatient settings, but implementation and sustainability are understudied.

Aims

This study is a follow-up of a previous study by Tebbett-Mock et al and examines the efficacy and sustainability of an adolescent DBT inpatient unit within a psychiatric hospital in the Northeast. We hypothesised that adolescents who received DBT in our follow-up group (DBT Group 2) would not have statistical difference (ie, greater or fewer) of the following compared with the first group of patients who received DBT on the unit the year prior (DBT Group 1) and would have significantly fewer of the following compared with the treatment as usual (TAU) group: (1) constant observation hours for suicidal ideation, self-injury and aggression; (2) incidents of suicide attempts, self-injury and aggression; (3) restraints; (4) seclusions; (5) days hospitalised; (6) times readmitted to the unit within 30 days of discharge.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review for adolescents receiving inpatient DBT (DBT Group 1, n=425; DBT Group 2, n=393) and a historical control group (TAU, n=376). The χ² tests and one-way analysis of variance were conducted as preliminary analyses to examine group differences on diagnosis, gender and age. Kruskal-Wallis H tests were conducted to examine group differences on outcomes. Mann-Whitney U tests were used as post hoc analyses.

Results

Patients in DBT Group 2 were comparable to DBT Group 1 for the number of constant observation hours for self-injury (U=83 432.50, p=0.901), restraints (U=82 109, p=0.171) and days hospitalised (U=83 438.5, p=0.956). Patients in DBT Group 2 had a significantly greater number of incidents of suicide attempts compared with DBT Group 1 (U=82 662.5, p=0.037) and of self-injury compared with patients in DBT Group 1 (U=71724.5, p<0.001) and TAU (U=65649.0, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Results provide support for adolescent inpatient DBT compared with TAU and highlight staff turnover and lack of training as potential barriers to sustainability and efficacy.

Borderline personality disorder and adolescent suicide attempt: the mediating role of emotional dysregulation

BACKGROUND

Emotional dysregulation seems to be a core feature of Borderline Personality Disorders (BPD). In addition, recent research in the adolescent population has shown that suicidal behaviours have been associated with maladaptive strategies of emotion regulation.

METHODS

This study examined the relative contributions of emotional dysregulation to suicide attempt history in a clinical sample of borderline adolescents. Data were analyzed from 85 participants of the Collaborative European Research Network on Borderline Personality Disorder. Participants completed measures of BPD traits and symptoms, suicide behaviours, emotional dysregulation, attachment styles and lifetime depressive disorders.

RESULTS

In an SEM model, lifetime depressive disorders and insecure attachment styles have a significant direct effect on lifetime suicide attempt, but only lifetime depressive disorders have an indirect effect through emotion dysregulation. The results suggest that emotional dysregulation has a mediating role in suicide attempts among BPD adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings call for the development of interventions targeting the role of emotion dysregulation in effectively predicting and preventing suicidality in borderline adolescents.

Comorbid early psychosis and borderline personality disorder: Conceptualizing clinical overlap, etiology, and treatment

Despite substantial efforts aimed at the detection and intervention for early symptoms of mental illness, there is relatively limited research on the clinical overlap between borderline personality disorder (BPD) and early psychosis, for example, clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis, in young people. We present a narrative review of the clinical overlap between BPD and psychosis spectrum symptoms. Both conditions have unstable temporal course, and both are marked by functional impairment, increased suicide risk, and higher rates of psychiatric inpatient services. We then review evidence-based treatments for psychosis and BPD, emphasizing treatments for early presentations of these symptoms and initial research considering treatments for the overlap. Psychotherapies with the strongest empirical support include cognitive behavioral models, with BPD showing limited response to adjunctive pharmacotherapy. We end by discussing specific recommendations for future research, including longitudinal studies to determine the predictors of the course of illness and the development of treatments to target comorbid BPD and CHR symptoms.

Factors associated with response and remission from depression at 6-months of treatment in a retrospective cohort treated within an integrated care program

Background

Depression causes significant morbidity, which impacts mental health, overall general health outcomes, everyday functioning and quality of life. This study aims to contribute to knowledge in the field through enhanced understanding of factors that influence depression response and remission, with consideration for design of treatment services to optimize depression outcomes within integrated care programs.

Methods

Using routine behavioral health screening and electronic health record data, we identified a retrospective cohort consisting of 615 adult patients receiving depression treatment within an integrated care program. Cohort member Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) data was analyzed for the 6 months following initiation of treatment. Multinomial regression models were estimated to identify factors associated with depression treatment response (PHQ-9 < 10) and remission (PHQ-9 < 5).

Results

At 6 months, 47% of patients demonstrated treatment response and 16% demonstrated remission. Baseline trauma symptoms and suicidal ideation were significantly associated with decreased odds of achieving remission (Odds Ratio (95% CI) [OR] = 0.45 (0.23, 0.88) and OR = 0.49 (0.29, 0.82), respectively). In fully adjusted models, baseline suicidal ideation remained significant (OR = 0.53 (0.31, 0.89)) and some evidence of an association persisted for baseline trauma symptoms (OR = 0.51 (0.25, 1.01)).

Conclusions

After controlling for baseline depression symptoms, the presence of suicidal ideation is associated with reduced likelihood of remission. Increased understanding of factors associated with depression treatment outcomes may be employed to help guide the delivery and design of clinical services. Alongside routine screening for co-morbid anxiety, suicidal ideation and traumatic stress should be assessed and considered when designing depression treatment services.

Multi-family therapy for bulimia nervosa in adolescence: a pilot study in a community eating disorder service

Multi-family therapy for Bulimia Nervosa (MFT-BN) was developed in response to the modest outcomes following both Family Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy for adolescents with BN. BN impacts individuals and their family members with high levels of carer stress. MFT-BN targets barriers to treatment including low motivation to change, hostility and criticism, negative affect alongside emotion dysregulation and common comorbidities. MFT-BN enhances treatment, providing a community of support and acquisition of emotional regulation and interpersonal skills. The study describes the clinical characteristics of the group of participants to whom MFT-BN is offered and presents the outcomes of families who have participated in it. Prior to MFT-BN, adolescents who received it were more likely to have self-harmed and had elevated levels of eating disordered cognitions than those who did not receive MFT-BN. Following MFT-BN, parents report decreases in the negative experiences of caregiving and in their own symptoms of anxiety. Adolescents report reductions in anxiety and depression alongside improvement in emotion regulation. Improvements in symptoms of eating disorders include reductions in eating disorder cognitions and modest reductions in binge and purge symptoms after 14 weeks of treatment. Adolescents who participated in MFT-BN were less likely to drop out of outpatient treatment.

Changes in suicide and non-suicidal self-injury ideation and the moderating role of specific emotions over the course of dialectical behavior therapy

OBJECTIVE

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) targets suicidal behavior and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) as well as urges/ideation to engage in these behaviors. However, it remains unclear which specific suicidal ideation (SI) and NSSI ideation domains (i.e., frequency, worst intensity, average intensity, perceived likelihood of future ideation, and duration of ideation), if any, are impacted, and whether specific emotions moderate these effects.

METHOD

73 individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), enrolled in six months of DBT, completed interviews of suicide and NSSI ideation and self-report measures of specific emotions at baseline, mid-treatment, and post-treatment.

RESULTS

Generalized estimation equations revealed that all domains of suicidal ideation decreased over the course of DBT, but for NSSI domains, only ideation intensity decreased. Higher levels of shame/guilt predicted less, and higher fear predicted more, reduction in SI and NSSI ideation frequency. Higher shame/guilt also predicted more reduction in worst SI intensity. Higher sadness predicted greater reductions in SI intensity and duration, but less reductions in the perceived likelihood of future NSSI ideation.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that DBT effectively reduces several facets of SI, but more work is required to target NSSI ideation. Results also suggest that targeting shame/guilt may be important to reducing SI and NSSI ideation.

Blinding in randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions: a retrospective study of published trial reports

OBJECTIVES

To study the extent of blinding in randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions and the interpretative considerations if randomised clinical trials are not blinded.

DESIGN

Retrospective study of trial reports published in six high impact factor journals within the field of psychiatry in 2017 and 2018.

SETTING

Trial reports published in World Psychiatry, JAMA Psychiatry, Lancet Psychiatry, American Journal of Psychiatry, British Journal of Psychiatry, or Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Blinding status of participants, treatment providers, outcome assessors, data managers, the data safety and monitoring committee, statisticians and conclusion makers, if trialists rejected the null hypothesis on the primary outcome measure, and if trialists discussed the potential bias risk from lack of blinding in the published trial report.

RESULTS

63 randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions were identified. None (0%; 95% CI 0% to 5.75%) of the trials reported blinding of all possible key persons. 37 (58.7%; 95% CI 46.42% to 70.04%) trials reported blinding of outcome assessors. Two (3.2%; 95% CI 0.87% to 10.86%) trials reported blinding of participants. Two (3.2%; 95% CI 0.87% to 10.86%) trials reported blinding of data managers. Three (4.8%; 95% CI 1.63% to 13.09%) trials reported blinding of statisticians. None of the trials reported blinding of treatment providers, the data safety and monitoring committee, and conclusion makers. 45 (71.4%; 95% CI 59.30% to 81.10%) trials rejected the null hypothesis on the primary outcome(s). 13 (20.7%; 95% CI 12.48% to 32.17%) trials discussed the potential bias risk from lack of blinding in the published trial report.

CONCLUSIONS

Blinding of key persons involved in randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions is rarely sufficiently documented. The possible interpretative limitations are only rarely considered. There is a need of randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions with documented blinding attempts of all possible key persons.

A Qualitative Evaluation of Young People's, Parents' and Carers' Experiences of a National and Specialist CAMHS Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Outpatient Service

(1) Background: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is the recommended treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) symptoms in adults, however, research investigating the effectiveness of DBT for adolescents is limited. The present study explores the experiences of young people and their parents/carers of a DBT service using qualitative methodology. (2) Methods: Young people and their parents/carers, who completed DBT within the National and Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health DBT Service based at the Maudsley Hospital in London, were asked questions regarding their experience of the service. Data was collected from young people who completed treatment between July 2019 and July 2020 (n = 18) and their parents and carers (n = 7). (3) Results: Amongst young people, the themes identified were: a new way of living, better understanding of self, new skills, person-centred approach, and relationships with others. Parent and carer interviews revealed themes of improved relationships, feeling supported, improved quality of life, and time/timing. (4) Conclusions: Young people reported improvements in emerging BPD symptomology after completing DBT. Parents and carers reported improvements in their young person and families since starting DBT. A longer DBT programme, earlier DBT intervention, and the time-consuming nature of DBT were highlighted as areas for improvement.

Mentalization-based treatment in groups for adolescents with Borderline Personality Disorder: 3- and 12-month follow-up of a randomized controlled trial

Mentalization-based treatment in groups (MBT-G) has never been tested in adolescents with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in a randomized controlled trial. The current study aimed to test the long-term effectiveness of MBT-G in an adolescent sample with BPD or BPD features (≥ 4 DSM-5 BPD criteria). Hundred and eleven patients with BPD (n = 106) or BPD features (n = 5) were randomized to either (1) a 1-year modified MBT-G program comprising three MBT introductory sessions, five individual case formulation sessions, 37 weekly MBT group sessions, and six MBT-Parent sessions, or (2) treatment as usual (TAU), defined as at least 12 individual monthly treatment sessions with follow-up assessments at 3 and 12 months post treatment. The primary outcome was the score on the Borderline Personality Features Scale for Children (BPFS-C), and secondary outcomes included clinician-rated BPD symptoms and global level of functioning as well as self-reported self-harm, depression, externalizing and internalizing symptoms, and caregiver reports. There were no statistically significant differences between MBT-G and TAU on the primary outcome measure or any of the secondary outcomes. Both groups showed improvement on the majority of clinical and social outcomes at both follow-up points, although remission rates were modest with just 35% in MBT-G and 39% in TAU 2 years after inclusion into the study. MBT-G was not superior to TAU in improving borderline features in adolescents. Although improvement was observed equally in both interventions over time, the patients continued to exhibit prominent BPD features, general psychopathology and decreased functioning in the follow-up period, which points to a need for more research and better understanding of effective components in early intervention programs. The ClinicalTrials.gov identifier is NCT02068326.

Efficacy of dialectical behavior therapy for adolescent self-harm and suicidal ideation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Given the widespread nature and clinical consequences of self-harm and suicidal ideation among adolescents, establishing the efficacy of developmentally appropriate treatments that reduce both self-harm and suicidal ideation in the context of broader adolescent psychopathology is critical.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A) literature on treating self-injury in adolescents (12-19 years). We searched for eligible trials and treatment evaluations published prior to July 2020 in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases for clinical trials. Twenty-one studies were identified [five randomized-controlled trials (RCTs), three controlled clinical trials (CCTs), and 13 pre-post evaluations]. We extracted data for predefined primary (self-harm, suicidal ideation) and secondary outcomes (borderline personality symptoms; BPD) and calculated treatment effects for RCTs/CCTs and pre-post evaluations. This meta-analysis was pre-registered with OSF: osf.io/v83e7.

RESULTS

Overall, the studies comprised 1673 adolescents. Compared to control groups, DBT-A showed small to moderate effects for reducing self-harm (g = -0.44; 95% CI -0.81 to -0.07) and suicidal ideation (g = -0.31, 95% CI -0.52 to -0.09). Pre-post evaluations suggested large effects for all outcomes (self-harm: g = -0.98, 95% CI -1.15 to -0.81; suicidal ideation: g = -1.16, 95% CI -1.51 to -0.80; BPD symptoms: g = -0.97, 95% CI -1.31 to -0.63).

CONCLUSIONS

DBT-A appears to be a valuable treatment in reducing both adolescent self-harm and suicidal ideation. However, evidence that DBT-A reduces BPD symptoms was only found in pre-post evaluations.

Emotional and Behavioral Dysregulation in Severe Mental Illness

Emotional and behavioral dysregulation are common in severe mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Emotional instability and behavioral outbursts can be driven by internal processes and/or environmental triggers and interpersonal interactions. Understanding the underlying diagnosis is important in determining the best course of treatment. Disorder-specific treatments are important in addressing underlying drivers of emotional dysregulation, irritability, and aggression. Coping skills training and behavioral modification strategies have broad applicability and are useful for aggression and irritability. Treatment planning to address emotion dysregulation and aggression in severe mental illness should address psychiatric comorbidities, substance use, and medication adherence.

Efficacy of attachment-based family therapy compared to treatment as usual for suicidal ideation in adolescents with MDD

Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) is the only empirically supported family therapy model designed to treat adolescent depression, including those at risk for suicide, and their families. ABFT aims to repair interpersonal ruptures and rebuild an emotionally protective parent-child relationship. To study the effectiveness of ABFT compared with Treatment as Usual (TAU) in reducing suicidal ideation in clinically depressed adolescents. Sixty adolescents (86.7% girls), aged 13 to 18 years (M = 14.9), with major depressive disorder referred to two CAMHS were randomized to receive 16 weeks of ABFT or TAU. ABFT consisted of weekly therapy sessions according to the treatment manual. Suicidal ideation was measured with the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire-Junior at 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 weeks. Linear mixed models were fitted to test our hypothesis, time was the only factor to have a significant effect on suicidal ideation t(31.05) = -3.32, p < .01. Participants in both treatment groups reported significantly reduced suicidal ideation, but the majority were still in the clinical range after 16 weeks of treatment. ABFT was not associated with more favorable outcomes than TAU. Findings must be interpreted with caution given the study limitations.

Dysregulation, Catastrophic Reactions, and the Anxiety Disorders

Normal developmental activities (eg, going to school, raising a hand in class, and managing typical life uncertainties) are 'triggers' for children and adolescents with anxiety disorders. To cope, children with anxiety avoid; however, when avoidance of developmentally appropriate activities is not possible, catastrophic responses can ensue. If these catastrophic reactions result in successful avoidance, they are likely to recur leading to a generalized pattern of dysregulated behavior. Interventions include treating anxiety disorder symptoms to remission. For parents the goal is to challenge their child to engage in important developmental activities, reward positive coping and avoid reinforcing avoidance behavior.

Comparative Efficacy and Acceptability of Psychotherapies for Self-harm and Suicidal Behavior Among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Self-harm and suicidal behavior are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality among children and adolescents. The comparative performance of psychotherapies for suicidality is unclear because few head-to-head clinical trials have been conducted.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of psychotherapies for the treatment of self-harm and suicidality among children and adolescents.

DATA SOURCES

Four major bibliographic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Embase) were searched for clinical trials comparing psychotherapy with control conditions from inception to September 2020.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized clinical trials comparing psychotherapies for suicidality and/or self-harm with control conditions among children and adolescents were included after a blinded review by 3 independent reviewers (A.B., M.P., and J.W.).

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline was followed for data abstraction, and the Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to evaluate study-level risk of bias. Data abstraction was performed by 1 reviewer (A.B.) and confirmed by 2 independent blinded reviewers (J.W. and M.P.). Data were analyzed from October 15, 2020, to February 15, 2021.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcomes were dichotomized self-harm and retention in treatment. The secondary outcomes were dichotomized all-cause treatment discontinuation and scores on instruments measuring suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms. Effect sizes were pooled using frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis models to generate summary odds ratios (ORs) and Cohen d standardized mean differences (SMDs). Negative Cohen d SMDs or ORs less than 1 indicated that the treatment reduced the parameter of interest relative to the control condition (eg, signifying a beneficial association with suicidal ideation).

RESULTS

The systematic search generated 1272 unique records. Of those, 44 randomized clinical trials (5406 total participants; 4109 female participants [76.0%]) from 49 articles were selected (5 follow-up studies were merged with their primary clinical trials to avoid publication bias). The selected clinical trials spanned January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2020. The median duration of treatment was 3 months (range, 0.25-12.00 months), and the median follow-up period was 12 months (range, 1-36 months). None of the investigated psychotherapies were associated with increases in study withdrawals or improvements in retention in treatment compared with treatment as usual. Dialectical behavioral therapies were associated with reductions in self-harm (OR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.12-0.64) and suicidal ideation (Cohen d SMD, -0.71; 95% CI, -1.19 to -0.23) at the end of treatment, while mentalization-based therapies were associated with decreases in self-harm (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.15-0.97) and suicidal ideation (Cohen d SMD, -1.22; 95% CI, -2.18 to -0.26) at the end of follow-up. The quality of evidence was downgraded because of high risk of bias overall, heterogeneity, publication bias, inconsistency, and imprecision.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Although some psychotherapeutic modalities appear to be acceptable and efficacious for reducing self-harm and suicidality among children and adolescents, methodological issues and high risk of bias prevent a consistent estimate of their comparative performance.

The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Adherence Coding Scale (DBT ACS): Psychometric properties

The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Adherence Coding Scale (DBT ACS) is an observer-rated measure used to evaluate the extent to which therapists deliver individual and group DBT with adherence to the manual. Despite its frequent use in clinical trials of DBT, relatively little is known about its psychometric properties. The present study utilized data from six clinical trials conducted in research and community settings with a variety of patient populations. Across these studies, the DBT ACS was used to code a total of 1,271 DBT individual therapy sessions and 180 DBT group sessions. Results indicate the DBT ACS computed global score has good internal consistency (α = .81) and excellent interrater reliability (ICC = .93). A confirmatory factor analysis found that a single factor yielded acceptable goodness of fit indices. The DBT ACS discriminated between DBT and another treatment and between research and community therapists. Across studies, variability in adherence scores was attributable more to therapists (33%) than to patients (15%). Both therapist and patient variability were higher in effectiveness than efficacy trials. Generalizability coefficients indicated that 5 sessions are needed to estimate a dependable adherence score at the patient level, whereas 9-15 sessions are needed to achieve adequate generalizability at the therapist level. Fewer sessions were needed to yield dependable scores for community therapists compared to research therapists. The DBT ACS appears to be a reliable, valid, and dependable method of assessing therapist adherence to individual and group DBT across diverse treatment settings, therapist types, and patient populations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).

Interventions for self-harm in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Self-harm (SH; intentional self-poisoning or self-injury regardless of degree of suicidal intent or other types of motivation) is a growing problem in most countries, often repeated, and associated with suicide. Evidence assessing the effectiveness of interventions in the treatment of SH in children and adolescents is lacking, especially when compared with the evidence for psychosocial interventions in adults. This review therefore updates a previous Cochrane Review (last published in 2015) on the role of interventions for SH in children and adolescents.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of psychosocial interventions or pharmacological agents or natural products for SH compared to comparison types of care (e.g. treatment-as-usual, routine psychiatric care, enhanced usual care, active comparator, placebo, alternative pharmacological treatment, or a combination of these) for children and adolescents (up to 18 years of age) who engage in SH.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Specialized Register, the Cochrane Library (Central Register of Controlled Trials [CENTRAL] and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews [CDSR]), together with MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, and PsycINFO (to 4 July 2020).

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing specific psychosocial interventions or pharmacological agents or natural products with treatment-as-usual (TAU), routine psychiatric care, enhanced usual care (EUC), active comparator, placebo, alternative pharmacological treatment, or a combination of these, in children and adolescents with a recent (within six months of trial entry) episode of SH resulting in presentation to hospital or clinical services. The primary outcome was the occurrence of a repeated episode of SH over a maximum follow-up period of two years. Secondary outcomes included treatment adherence, depression, hopelessness, general functioning, social functioning, suicidal ideation, and suicide.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently selected trials, extracted data, and appraised trial quality. For binary outcomes, we calculated odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence internals (CIs). For continuous outcomes, we calculated the mean difference (MD) or standardised mean difference (SMD) and 95% CIs. The overall quality of evidence for the primary outcome (i.e. repetition of SH at post-intervention) was appraised for each intervention using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We included data from 17 trials with a total of 2280 participants. Participants in these trials were predominately female (87.6%) with a mean age of 14.7 years (standard deviation (SD) 1.5 years). The trials included in this review investigated the effectiveness of various forms of psychosocial interventions. None of the included trials evaluated the effectiveness of pharmacological agents in this clinical population. There was a lower rate of SH repetition for DBT-A (30%) as compared to TAU, EUC, or alternative psychotherapy (43%) on repetition of SH at post-intervention in four trials (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.82; N = 270; k = 4; high-certainty evidence). There may be no evidence of a difference for individual cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)-based psychotherapy and TAU for repetition of SH at post-intervention (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.12 to 7.24; N = 51; k = 2; low-certainty evidence). We are uncertain whether mentalisation based therapy for adolescents (MBT-A) reduces repetition of SH at post-intervention as compared to TAU (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.06 to 8.46; N = 85; k = 2; very low-certainty evidence). Heterogeneity for this outcome was substantial ( I² = 68%). There is probably no evidence of a difference between family therapy and either TAU or EUC on repetition of SH at post-intervention (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.49 to 2.07; N = 191; k = 2; moderate-certainty evidence). However, there was no evidence of a difference for compliance enhancement approaches on repetition of SH by the six-month follow-up assessment, for group-based psychotherapy at the six- or 12-month follow-up assessments, for a remote contact intervention (emergency cards) at the 12-month assessment, or for therapeutic assessment at the 12- or 24-month follow-up assessments.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Given the moderate or very low quality of the available evidence, and the small number of trials identified, there is only uncertain evidence regarding a number of psychosocial interventions in children and adolescents who engage in SH. Further evaluation of DBT-A is warranted. Given the evidence for its benefit in adults who engage in SH, individual CBT-based psychotherapy should also be further developed and evaluated in children and adolescents.

Feasibility of an Integrated Treatment Approach for Youth with Depression, Suicide Attempts, and Substance Use Problems

Depression, suicidal behaviors and substance use problems frequently co-occur, and treatment for youth with these co-occurring problems is often fragmented and challenging. An integrated cognitive-behavioral treatment approach that builds upon a relapse prevention framework and applies common core skills, language, and approach for treating these related problems may be clinically beneficial. Following a description of the integrated approach, we present results of a pilot trial (n = 13) to examine the acceptability and feasibility of the Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy - Relapse Prevention (CBT-RP) intervention plus enhanced treatment as usual (TAU) compared to enhanced TAU alone. The feasibility of the CBT-RP + TAU intervention was reflected by high rates of retention (86%). The acceptability was reflected in positive evaluations regarding the helpfulness of the intervention by adolescents and families. The majority of youth in both CBT-RP + TAU and TAU alone groups evidenced reductions in depression and suicide ideation from study entry to Week 20. Patterns of reduction were more consistent, however, for youth receiving CBT-RP + TAU, and reductions were slower to emerge for some youth receiving TAU alone. Reductions in alcohol and marijuana problems were similar, but half of the youth in TAU alone (and none in the CBT-RP + TAU group) had emergency department visits related to psychiatric crises or substance related problems. These findings, although based on a small sample, underscore the feasibility and acceptability of an integrated cognitive-behavioral relapse prevention approach for youth with depression, suicide attempt histories, and substance use problems.

Development and two-phased pilot RCT of a foster/kinship caregiver intervention to improve sexual health communication with youth

PURPOSE

Foster youth have high rates of unintended teen pregnancies and other negative sexual health outcomes. Foster and kinship caregivers (FKC) are an untapped resource to reduce risks. We conducted a two-phase pilot study to evaluate feasibility, acceptability and assess preliminary efficacy of a training designed to improve caregiver communication, monitoring and conflict behaviors and improve sexual health outcomes for youth in foster care. Our study included a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) component.

METHOD

Phase 1: We recruited 49 FKC and assessed feasibility quantitatively, and acceptability both qualitatively and quantitatively of our intervention (Heart to Heart). Phase 2: We conducted an RCT with 71 participants and evaluated caregiver communication, monitoring, and conflict behaviors as well as the psychological determinants thereof in intervention and control groups at 1, 3, and 6 months.

RESULTS

Phase 1: Facilitators delivered all intervention content; >90% participants received the entire training. The intervention was highly acceptable (mean score 4.9/5 on two questions). Phase 2: 71 participants were eligible and completed baseline (68 completed at least one follow up survey). We found significant improvements in the intervention group in knowledge, communication expectations, and caregiver-youth conflict behaviors in one or more waves; the control group demonstrated no significant improvements. When groups were compared, we found significant differences in knowledge, communication frequency, and conflict behaviors at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Heart to Heart is feasible, acceptable, and preliminary outcomes data is promising. More research is needed to better establish evidence of efficacy for long-term behavior change in caregivers and youth.

CLINICALTRIALSGOV IDENTIFER

NCT03331016.

Cessation of Deliberate Self-Harm Behavior in Patients With Borderline Personality Traits Treated With Outpatient Dialectical Behavior Therapy

The first aim of the study was to identify when deliberate self-harm (DSH) behavior ceased in patients with borderline symptoms undergoing dialectical behavioral treatment (DBT). The second aim was to compare patients who ceased their self-harm behavior early or late in the course of treatment, with regard to demographics, comorbidity, and symptom severity. The study used a naturalistic design and included 75 treatment completers at an outpatient DBT clinic. Of these 75 patients, 46 presented with self-harming behavior at pre-treatment. These 46 participants where split into two groups, based on median amount of time before ceasing self-harm behavior, termed early (up to 8 weeks) and late (8+ weeks) responders. Treatment duration varied from 16 to 160 weeks. Patients were assessed pre- and post-treatment using measures of depression, hopelessness, personality traits, quality of life, and global assessment of symptoms and functioning. The majority (93.5%) ceased their self-harming within the first year, and the average number of weeks was 15.5 (SD = 17.8). Twenty-five percent of patients ceased their DSH behavior during the first week of treatment. For the remaining patients, the cessation of DSH continued gradually across a 1 year period. We found no differences between early and late responders with respect to demographics, comorbidity, symptom severity, or treatment outcome. None of the patients committed suicide. The findings indicate that self-harming behavior decreases gradually across the first year after starting DBT.

Saving Lives: Recognizing and Intervening with Youth at Risk for Suicide

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth in the United States. Fortunately, substantial advances have been achieved in identifying and intervening with youth at risk. In this review, we first focus on advances in proactive suicide risk screening and psychoeducation aimed at improving the recognition of suicide risk. These strategies have the potential to improve our ability to recognize and triage youth at risk who may otherwise be missed. We then review recent research on interventions for youth at risk. We consider a broad range of psychotherapeutic interventions, including crisis interventions in emergency care settings. Though empirical support remains limited for interventions targeting suicide risk in youth, effective and promising approaches continue to be identified. We highlight evidence-based screening and intervention approaches as well as challenges in these areas and recommendations for further investigation.

Psychological therapies for adolescents with borderline personality disorder (BPD) or BPD features-A systematic review of randomized clinical trials with meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis

Objectives

To review the effectiveness of psychological therapies for adolescents with borderline personality disorder (BPD) or BPD features.

Methods

We included randomized clinical trials on psychological therapies for adolescents with BPD and BPD features. Data were extracted and assessed for quality according to Cochrane guidelines, and summarized as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for continuous data and as Odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI for dichotomous data. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane’s risk of bias tool for each domain. When possible, we pooled trials into meta-analyses, and used Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA) to control for random errors. Quality of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

10 trials on adolescents with BPD or BPD features were included. All trials were considered at high risk of bias, and the quality of the evidence was rated as “very low”. We did TSA on the primary outcome and found that the required information size was reached. The risk of random error was thus discarded.

Conclusion

Only 10 trials have been conducted on adolescents with BPD or BPD features. Of these only few showed superior outcomes of the experimental intervention compared to the control intervention. No adverse effects of the interventions were mentioned. Attrition rates varied from 15–75% in experimental interventions. The overall quality was very low due to high risk of bias, imprecision and inconsistency, which limits the confidence in effect estimates. Due to the high risk of bias, high attrition rates and underpowered studies in this area, it is difficult to derive any conclusions on the efficacy of psychological therapies for BPD in adolescence. There is a need for more high quality trials with larger samples to identify effective psychological therapies for this specific age group with BPD or BPD features.