@article{ref1,
title="Effectiveness of online self-help for suicidal thoughts: results of a randomised controlled trial",
journal="PLoS one",
year="2014",
author="van Spijker, Bregje A. J. and van Straten, Annemieke and Kerkhof, Ad J. F. M.",
volume="9",
number="2",
pages="e90118-e90118",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Many people with suicidal thoughts do not receive treatment. The Internet can be used to reach more people in need of support. OBJECTIVE: To test the effectiveness of unguided online self-help to reduce suicidal thoughts. METHOD: 236 adults with mild to moderate suicidal thoughts were randomised to the intervention (n = 116) or a waitlist control group (n = 120). Assessments took place at baseline, and 2, 4 and 6 weeks later. Primary outcome was suicidal thoughts. Secondary outcomes were depressive symptoms, anxiety, hopelessness, worry, and health status. RESULTS: The intervention group showed a small significant effect in reducing suicidal thoughts (d = 0.28). Effects were more pronounced for those with a history of repeated suicide attempts. There was also a significant reduction in worry (d = 0.33). All other secondary outcomes showed small but non-significant improvements. CONCLUSIONS: Although effect sizes were small, the reach of the internet could enable this intervention to help many people reduce their suicidal thoughts. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Netherlands Trial Register NTR1689.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1932-6203",
doi="10.1371/journal.pone.0090118",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0090118"
}