Baseline characteristics and comparative treatment satisfaction of deliberate self-harm patients recruited in a randomised controlled trial of group interpersonal problem-solving skills training compared with standard care

Aim: To report on baseline characteristics and comparative treatment satisfaction of a sample of deliberate self-harm (DSH) patients recruited in two centres in a randomised controlled trial to determine the efficacy of a structured group interpersonal problem-solving skills training programme (IPSST) as an intervention for DSH compared with standard care. Methods: Consenting DSH patients meeting inclusion criteria were interviewed within three days of their index episode. Results: Of the 2,631 DSH patients screened, 1,147 (44%) were eligible, of whom, 445 (39%) were randomised (220 to IPSST, 225 to standard care). At intake, 64% had at least one previous episode of DSH. From preliminary analysis of 414 baseline interviews, the following mean scores were obtained (Suicide Intent Scale mean 13; Beck Depression Inventory mean 36.3; Hopelessness Scale mean 10.8). Only 32% felt they could solve their main problem. Overall 65% of IPSST sessions were attended. Compared with standard care, more IPSST clients were satisfied with the treatment programme (91% v 60%, p<0.001). Conclusions: The high attendance rates and greater satisfaction with IPSST indicate the suitability of this treatment approach for a high risk sub-group of DSH patients with moderate to high levels of suicide intent and moderate to severe levels of depression, hopelessness and problem-solving difficulty. Language: en