NCT07111377

Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Reducing Suicidal Ideation in Economically Distressed Migrants

The Efficacy of Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Brief CBT) in Reducing Suicidal Ideation Among Economically Distressed Migrant Workers in the Middle East: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 120 (actual)
• Sponsor: Bath Spa University Academic Centre RAK · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This randomized controlled trial assessed the efficacy of an 8-session, culturally adapted Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Brief CBT) compared to Treatment as Usual (TAU) in reducing suicidal ideation among economically distressed migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates. Participants (N=120) were randomized to receive Brief CBT or TAU. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 4-weeks, 8-weeks, and 3-month follow-up.

Detailed description

Economically distressed migrant workers face high psychosocial stress, resulting in increased suicidal ideation. This study examined the effectiveness of culturally adapted Brief CBT in addressing suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, stress, and financial distress compared to standard treatment resources provided as usual.

Conditions

• Suicidal Ideation
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Financial Stress

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy	Participants received an 8-session culturally adapted Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy intervention targeting suicidal ideation, psychological distress, and financial stress. Therapy included crisis stabilization, cognitive restructuring of maladaptive thoughts related to economic hardship, behavioral activation, problem-solving skills for financial and psychosocial stressors, and emotion-regulation training. It concluded with relapse prevention planning and connection to supportive community resources. Sessions were delivered weekly, either individually (60 minutes) or in groups (90 minutes), based on participant preference.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-01-10
• Primary completion: 2024-10-15
• Completion: 2024-11-25
• First posted: 2025-08-08
• Last updated: 2025-08-08

Locations

1 site across 1 country: United Arab Emirates