New couples therapy aims to curb veteran suicide

NCT ID NCT04816149

Completed Disease control Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a new therapy called TR&ST that involves both a veteran at risk for suicide and their romantic partner. The goal was to see if working together as a couple could reduce suicidal thoughts more than standard VA care. The study included 104 veterans and their partners and measured changes in suicidal thinking and communication over several months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Couples-based therapy (Treatment for Relationships and Safety Together, TR&ST)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a new, effective way to reduce suicidal thoughts in veterans by involving their intimate partners in therapy.
What could go wrong: This was a small, early-stage pilot study with only 104 participants. The results may not apply to all veterans or couples, and the therapy may not be more effective than standard care.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Suicide

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INTERPERSONAL RELATIONS SUICIDE

Contacts and locations

Locations

VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA

San Diego, California, 92161-0002, United States

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