RE:SOLVE - A Problem Solving Pathway: An Open Trial With Young People at Risk of Self-Harm

Abstract

This article presents the results of a mixed methods open trial of “RE:SOLVE – A Problem Solving Pathway” for young people at risk of self-harm. The aims of the study were to: test the acceptability and feasibility of RE:SOLVE for the clients who took part; gather efficacy data using quantitative measures of mood, problem solving capacity, hopelessness, suicidal thinking, and overall functioning; and understand the experiences of the participants through semi-structured interviews.

Two thirds of participants completed the problem-solving therapy sessions and took part in the questionnaires and interviews. For those who completed all assessments, the results showed statistically and clinically significant reductions in levels of depression and suicidal orientation from pre- to post-intervention tests.

All other measures showed consistent improvements, although they did not reach statistically significant levels. The intervention shows promise but needs to be tested in a randomised control trial.