[An effective method of therapy in suicide prevention: problem solving training in the clinical population].
BACKGROUND
The low level of problem solving skills is among the main cognitive factors of suicide vulnerability. Problem solving training (PST), a short, structured form of therapy for in- and out-patients, was developed for the improvement of problem solving skills. The Hungarian adaptation and initial results of PST are presented in this pilot study.


METHODS
Thirty-four participants between age 18 and 60 with previous suicide attempt, major or recurrent depression in their psychiatric history were assigned to out-patient PST groups. Training lasted for eight weeks, one session per week. Participant's level of depression, anxiety, hopelessness, coping styles and problem solving skills were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the training.


RESULTS
Post PST assessments showed a significant decrease of level of depression and hopelessness (t=3,029, p<0,001 - t=2,291 p<0,05), an increase of problem analysing and goal orientation scores (p<0,05), while emotion centered coping scores indicated significant decrease (p<0,001).


CONCLUSIONS
Our results show that the PST can be an efficient, user friendly method in suicide prevention in out- and in-patients. For the more accurate assessment of the efficacy of PST control group studies, and the follow-up of the participants will be needed in the future.
SE AOK Klinikai Pszichologia Tanszek, Budapest, Hungary.
Gyöngyi
G
Ajtay
Márk
M
Bérdi
Simon
S
Szilágyi
Forintos Dóra
FD
Perczel
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D003863:Depression / Q000628:therapy; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D006814:Hungary / Q000453:epidemiology; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D011340:Problem Solving; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000092864:Suicide Prevention