Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Reducing Suicidal Ideation in Economically Distressed Migrants

This randomized controlled trial assessed the efficacy of an 8-session, culturally adapted Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Brief CBT) compared to Treatment as Usual (TAU) in reducing suicidal ideation among economically distressed migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates. Participants (N=120) were randomized to receive Brief CBT or TAU. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 4-weeks, 8-weeks, and 3-month follow-up.

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Key information

Conditions

Suicidal Ideation Anxiety Anxiety Disorders Behavior Behavioral Symptoms Depression Financial Stress Mental Disorders Self-Injurious Behavior Stress, Psychological Suicide

Age range

18 year–65 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Bath Spa University Academic Centre RAK

Dubai, 00000, United Arab Emirates

About this study

Economically distressed migrant workers face high psychosocial stress, resulting in increased suicidal ideation. This study examined the effectiveness of culturally adapted Brief CBT in addressing suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, stress, and financial distress compared to standard treatment resources provided as usual.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Age between 18 to 65 years.
Migrant worker residing in the UAE with a valid work or residence visa.
Experiencing significant economic distress (score of ≤40 on the InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being Scale - IFDFW).
Presence of suicidal ideation, defined as a score ≥1 on the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS).
Able to communicate effectively in English, Arabic, or Tagalog.
Willing and able to provide informed written consent.

Exclusion criteria

Acute psychosis, severe substance dependence, or immediate suicide risk requiring hospitalization.
Cognitive impairment limiting therapy participation.
Currently engaged in structured psychotherapy for depression or suicidality.

Treatment and study plan

Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral

Participants received an 8-session culturally adapted Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy intervention targeting suicidal ideation, psychological distress, and financial stress. Therapy included crisis stabilization, cognitive restructuring of maladaptive thoughts related to economic hardship, behavioral activation, problem-solving skills for financial and psychosocial stressors, and emotion-regulation training. It concluded with relapse prevention planning and connection to supportive community resources. Sessions were delivered weekly, either individually (60 minutes) or in groups (90 minutes), based on participant preference.

Primary outcomes

Reduction in Suicidal Ideation Severity (Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation; BSS)

Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks (mid-treatment), 8 weeks (post-treatment), and 3-month follow-up

Change in the severity of suicidal ideation as measured by the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS), a 19-item clinician-rated scale that assesses suicidal thoughts, plans, and wishes during the past week. Scores range from 0 to 38, with higher scores indicating greater suicidal ideation severity.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Bath Spa University Academic Centre RAK

Other

Registry information

Official study title

The Efficacy of Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Brief CBT) in Reducing Suicidal Ideation Among Economically Distressed Migrant Workers in the Middle East: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Acronym: Brief CBT

Important dates

Study start: 2024
Primary completion: 2024
Study completion: 2024
First posted: Aug 8, 2025
Registry last updated: Aug 8, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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Completed