CARMS v1: Cognitive approaches to combatting suicidality
Living with psychosis can be distressing, and many people experience suicidal thoughts or feel unable to cope. Most standard talking therapies focus on psychosis symptoms rather than tackling suicidal feelings directly. Researchers at the University of Manchester and four NHS Trusts are testing a new psychological therapy called CARMS (Cognitive Approaches to Combatting Suicidality). This trial compares two groups of patients. One group continues with their usual NHS mental health care. The second group receives their usual care plus 24 weekly, 50-minute sessions of CARMS therapy over six months. The therapy helps people find new ways to handle emotional pain, solve everyday problems, and overcome feelings of being trapped or defeated. Researchers will check in with participants at the start, at six months, and at 12 months to see if the therapy makes a positive difference.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Psychosis can cause people to hear voices, see things that others cannot, or hold strong beliefs that feel very real to them. These experiences can feel terrifying and lonely. As a result, many people with psychosis feel overwhelmed, defeated, or trapped, which can lead to thoughts of ending their life. While talking therapies are often offered in the NHS, they usually focus on managing psychosis symptoms rather than addressing suicidal thoughts directly.
To help fill this gap, researchers developed CARMS, which stands for Cognitive Approaches to Combatting Suicidality. This specialized talking therapy focuses straight on the painful feelings that lead to suicidal thoughts, such as severe hopelessness and loneliness. The aim is to give people practical ways to manage difficult emotions and feel more in control of their lives.
This clinical trial is running across several NHS Trusts to find out how well CARMS works alongside regular care. By studying its effects on suicidal thoughts and feelings, researchers hope to provide better, more targeted psychological support within the NHS in the future.
Key takeaways
- CARMS is a new talking therapy aimed directly at reducing suicidal thoughts in people with psychosis.
- Half of the participants receive 24 weekly therapy sessions alongside their standard NHS care.
- Your routine mental health support and medications will continue as normal.
- The study measures your progress at the start, at six months, and at 12 months.
- Participation is voluntary, and you can leave the study at any time without losing your usual care.
Who may be eligible?
You may be able to join this study if you are 18 or older and have a diagnosis of psychosis. You must have had suicidal thoughts or feelings within the past three months. You also need to be receiving support from an NHS mental health team (either in the community or on a hospital ward) and have a named care coordinator.
To take part, you need to speak English well enough to complete the sessions without an interpreter, and you must be able to make an informed choice to join the study.
You cannot take part if you have dementia or another condition that directly affects the brain. You are also unable to join if you are currently participating in another clinical trial.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged 18 or older.
- I have been diagnosed with psychosis.
- I have experienced suicidal thoughts or behaviours in the past three months.
- I am currently supported by an NHS mental health team and have a care coordinator.
- I can speak and understand English without needing an interpreter.
- I am not currently taking part in another clinical trial.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, a computer will place you by chance into one of two groups. One group receives their usual NHS mental health treatment. The other group receives their usual treatment plus 24 weekly sessions of CARMS therapy. Each session lasts about 50 minutes over roughly six months.
The therapy sessions are one-to-one and focus on your personal recovery. You will work with a therapist to understand your thoughts, learn ways to deal with emotional distress, and practice problem-solving. No new medications are given as part of this study.
All participants will meet with a researcher at the start of the study, at six months, and at 12 months. During these visits, you will answer questions about your mood, suicidal thoughts, and how you are coping. Your total time in the study will be about one year.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of ManchesterUnverifiedManchester, England
Common questions
What is CARMS therapy?
It is a new talking therapy designed specifically to help people with psychosis manage suicidal thoughts and feelings of being trapped or hopeless.
Will my usual NHS treatment stop?
No. You will continue to see your care team and take your prescribed medications as normal, regardless of which study group you are in.
How is it decided which group I am in?
A computer chooses your group at random, similar to flipping a coin. This ensures the study gives fair, reliable results.
What happens if I get upset during a session?
Therapists are specially trained to support you. You can take a break, change the subject, or stop the session at any time.
Does it cost anything to take part?
No, taking part is completely free and funded as part of NHS and university research.
How to find out more
Kamelia Harris
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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