A single-group pilot feasibility and acceptability study of the Broad Minded Affective Coping technique for suicidal adults in crisis

The evidence base for psychological interventions for suicidal individuals is limited and the delivery of longer-term therapy within mental health crisis services is confronted by several barriers. For these reasons, identifying briefer techniques that can be delivered to at-risk groups is pertinent. This study provides a preliminary evaluation of the Broad Minded Affective Coping (BMAC) technique, a brief positive mental imagery intervention, for suicidal adults. Of 32 individuals referred by mental health crisis services, 14 adults with experience of suicidal ideation in the past three months took part. All participants received a one-session BMAC brief intervention, and invited to practice the BMAC independently for the next seven days and provide logbook ratings of pre-post BMAC mood states. Suicidal ideation and depression were assessed at baseline and at the end of the week of imagery practice. Nine participants (64%) completed the study by providing baseline and follow-up assessments of depression and suicidal ideation, completing a logbook and participating in a feedback interview. The BMAC appeared acceptable to participants and showed promise in improving mood and suicidal thoughts. We discuss the implications of these findings for future investigations of a one-session BMAC brief intervention.