Effects of Neuromodulation and Cognitive Training for Suicide in Veterans (ENACTS)

Effects of Neuromodulation and Cognitive Training for Suicide in Veterans (ENACTS)

Impaired executive function, such as impaired decision making and impulsivity, has been identified as an important contributor to the transition from suicidal ideation to suicide attempt. To address the epidemic of Veteran suicide in the United States, this study tests the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of a five day transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) augmented executive functioning training intervention. This intervention is delivered to high suicide risk inpatients. The ultimate goal is to reduce future suicide events (ideation, attempts, deaths) and improve quality of life (e.g. social relationships, health resource utilization).

Inclusion Criteria:

• currently admitted into the MVAHCS Inpatient Psychiatric Unit
• at a heightened risk for suicide (defined as a positive screen on the VA Comprehensive Suicide Risk Evaluation (CSRE) at intake and/or a suicide attempt within the previous 12 months)
• able to complete procedures and tasks

Exclusion Criteria:

• are unable to provide informed consent as determined by the Modified Dysken Tool
• have moderate/severe cognitive impairment as determined by the Mini-Mental State Examination (score 27)
• have contraindications for tDCS (history of seizures, metallic cranial plates/screws or implanted device, history of eczema on scalp)
• do not have a smartphone or device running Android or Apple iOS with which to download the mPRO EMA app
• have been involuntarily committed