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This study explores whether four sessions of attention bias modification (ABM) decreases suicide-specific attentional bias. We conducted two experiments where suicide ideators completed either a Training or Control version of ABM, a computer-based intervention intended to target attentional bias. Suicide-specific attentional bias was measured using adapted Stroop and probe discrimination tasks. The first experiment with community-based suicide ideators did not show that ABM impacts attentional bias or suicidal ideation. The second experiment with clinically severe suicidal inpatients yielded similar results. Post-hoc findings suggest that the type of attentional bias targeted by the current intervention may differ from the type that marks suicide risk. There remains little to no evidence that the ABM intervention changes suicide-specific attentional bias or suicidal ideation.

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The concept of recovery has become an increasingly common framework for organizing mental health care, thus many psychologists find themselves working in settings that espouse a recovery orientation to service delivery. However, the concepts of recovery and recovery-oriented services are complex and have many definitions and psychologists struggle to know whether or not the psychotherapy they provide is aligned with recovery-oriented care. This article provides practical recommendations on how to integrate recovery into the common processes of psychotherapy that cut across all theoretical orientations or particular treatment approaches. Specifically, this article details the process of building a therapeutic bond, conceptualizing a client’s problems and goals, implementing a treatment plan, and discharge planning, all from a recovery-oriented perspective. A case demonstration and analysis is presented to illustrate the recovery-oriented psychotherapy process described in this article.

Increasing social connection and access to care has been found to decrease the rate of suicide in U.S. veterans. The Veteran Outreach Into the Community to Expand Social Support (VOICES) is an intervention developed by Department Veteran Affairs (VA) staff to improve social connection and provide information about services by implementing community-based Veterans Socials. Seventy veterans at eight locations completed an anonymous cross-sectional survey. This evaluation examined three domains, acceptability (i.e., perceived value), demand (i.e., estimated or actual use), and expansion (i.e., sustainability and increase of Veterans Socials across time and locations). Findings indicated considerable levels of acceptability, demand for, and expansion of this intervention. Additionally, data suggested this intervention may increase social connection and utilization of VA services among attendees.