The perceived role of nightmares in suicidal ideation and behaviour
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An in-depth exploration of the perceived role of nightmares in suicidality within a schizophrenia population
IRAS ID
253746
Contact name
Paul Hanna
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
RIS - University of Surrey
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
This study aims to better understand what people with schizophrenia perceive to be the reasons behind why nightmares increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour.
Sleep disorders, especially nightmares, have independently been linked with an increase in suicide risk. Given that people with schizophrenia are at an increased risk of both sleep disorders and suicidality (i.e. suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts), it is important for clinicians working with this population to understand in greater detail the causes of suicidality and how best to support their patients.
The following people will be eligible to take part: mental health service users who have a diagnosis of schizophrenia; who have had self-reported nightmares in the last year, who have had suicidal thoughts and/or behaviours within the last year; who speak fluent English. In order to ensure only people who meet the aforementioned eligibility criteria are invited to take part, clinical staff from East Wandsworth Adult Community Mental Health Team and from the Early Intervention Psychosis team at Springfield Hospital in South West London will be contacted by the chief investigator (me) to identify relevant patients of theirs.
Participants who give their consent will each take part in an audio-recorded interview lasting approximately 45 minutes. Questions will focus around experiences of nightmares when well, when suicidal, and when unwell (i.e. when active symptoms of psychosis are present, such as hallucinations, delusional beliefs, low mood); impact and consequences of nightmares; interaction of nightmares and psychosis.
REC name
Social Care REC
REC reference
19/IEC08/0004
Date of REC Opinion
10 May 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion