Effectiveness of Empowerment Group Sessions for Treating Suicidal African American Women in Abusive Relationships

Most suicide attempts are a sign of great distress, often originating from depression;
physical and sexual abuse; substance abuse; or family history of suicide, violence, or mental
disorder. Risk factors for suicidal behavior are diverse, differing with gender, age, and
ethnicity. Since the mid-1980s, the number of reported suicides and suicidal thoughts among
young black individuals has increased alarmingly. The higher rates may be caused by high
stress living situations attributed to poverty, abuse, discrimination, racism, and difficult
family life. Therefore, cultural environments, social situations, and intrapersonal
influences are important considerations in developing an effective therapy to prevent
suicide. This study will evaluate the effect of culturally competent psychoeducational
empowerment sessions in treating suicidal African-American women who are in abusive
relationships.

The participants in this single-blind study will be randomly placed in one of two treatment
groups. One group will receive psychoeducational intervention (PEI) and the other will
receive enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU). After screening, eligible participants will
complete a 2-hour survey about life events, concerns, and feelings with a research team
member. One week later, participants will complete a second 1-hour survey. Participants will
then be randomly placed in the treatment groups. Participants in both groups will receive
treatment at Grady Health System, but those in the PEI group will also attend 10 weekly,
90-minute group sessions. The PEI empowerment group sessions will incorporate cultural,
social, and intrapersonal elements. The ETAU group will be given mental health treatment as
usual plus an adherence enhancement protocol. Follow-up surveys will occur at Week 10 (after
treatment completion) and at Months 6 and 12 post-treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Identifies as an African-American female

- Abusive relationship within the 12 months prior to study entry

- Suicide attempt within the 12 months prior to study entry

- Seeks services at Grady Health System

Exclusion Criteria:

- Score of less than 22 on Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE)

- Score of less than 18 on Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM)

- Acutely psychotic