DBI Impact Evaluation on Suicide and Self-harm
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Impact of a Distress Brief Intervention on Suicidal ideation, Suicide Attempts and Self-harm in the immediate, short and longer term
IRAS ID
318172
Contact name
Joanne McLean
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NatCen Social Research
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Since 2017, the Distress Brief Interventions Programme (DBI) has been piloted in Scotland, offering a Level 1 (L1) compassionate response to those presenting in distress followed within 24 hours by 14 consecutive days of community-based problem-solving support at Level 2 (L2). This study aims to understand whether and how DBI can reduce suicidal and self-harm thoughts and behaviour among those accessing DBI.
The mixed-method evaluation design includes patient and public involvement. Study outcomes include suicidal or self-harm ideation and behaviour, resilience, self-stigma, general health and service usage in the short to long-term. Around 1350 service users will complete both immediate pre- and post surveys using validated scales, with follow-up surveys and semi-structured interviews at 1 and 3-4 months and 1 year. Individual survey data will be linked to routine DBI data. Seven DBI staff focus groups will also be held.
Using this survey data, DBI service user health and social care resource use one month before and in the year following DBI will be costed. Typical GP care pathways for those in distress with suicidal or self-harm thoughts or behaviour will be costed and compared to DBI.
The use of unscheduled care for a comparator group of NHS24 users not accessing DBI and the intervention group of those accessing DBI will be compared. Within the intervention group rates of unscheduled care use post-intervention will be compared for those referred with suicidality or self-harm and others. Users of NHS24’s mental health hub who have not accessed DBI will be recruited for comparative interviews.
Quantitative analysis of survey and linked data will be undertaken. Qualitative data will be analysed thematically. Policy and practice recommendations will support DBI’s continuous improvement plan. Final and plain English reports, journal articles and conference papers will be published, along with a creative output by the PPI group.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
22/WS/0114
Date of REC Opinion
5 Oct 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion