Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to Promote Recovery from Suicidal Crises: A Randomized Controlled Acceptability and Feasibility Trial of ACT for Life

Abstract Objectives ACT for Life was developed to guide the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to maximize recovery from suicidal crises. The current study tested the acceptability of ACT for Life and evaluated the feasibility of the research design for a future efficacy trial. Method Seventy veterans were randomized to treatment as usual (TAU) or ACT for Life plus TAU. Participants were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and one- and three-months post enrollment. Results The mean Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 score was 29.1 (SD = 4.2; 95% CI: 27.6, 30.8). Qualitative data further supported acceptability. Feasibility was demonstrated by 74.3% of participants completing the treatment per protocol and clinicians delivering the treatment with 95% fidelity. Preliminary data suggest that ACT for Life may improve recovery following suicidal crises. Conclusions ACT for Life was highly acceptable and feasible. Future research is warranted to establish the efficacy of ACT for Life.