Testing the Efficacy of ACT for Life

ACT for Life is a brief recovery oriented individual inpatient Acceptance and Commitment Therapy treatment protocol consisting of four modules typically administered in three to six inpatient sessions and one to four outpatient sessions in the 30 days following discharge from inpatient care. The immediate goals of ACT for Life are to increase the participant's psychological flexibility and readiness to cope effectively with future suicidal crises.

PCT is an evidence-based treatment for PTSD but its principles can be applied to psychotherapy for a wide range of difficulties. The standard PCT manual was originally adapted for suicide prevention by Craig Bryan and his colleagues. Our study team made additional minor revisions to prepare the manual for use as an active control condition in the current efficacy trial. PCT includes two initial sessions focused on discussion of current symptoms, psychoeducation, and the rationale for PCT. Current life problems become the focus of the remaining sessions. PCT is expected to consist of three to six, 60-90-minute inpatient sessions and one to four outpatient sessions in the 30 days following discharge. Discontinuation will occur when the participant attends an individual outpatient mental health appointment or 30 days after discharge, whichever occurs first. PCT participants will receive caring communications from their therapist for 12-months following inpatient discharge.