The Hope Institute: Outcome Data for a New Suicide Treatment Model

OBJECTIVE: Suicide remains a growing concern in the United States, with a 35% increase since 2000. Leading experts emphasize the urgent need for effective, suicide-specific treatments. This retrospective study followed a quality improvement design, using a convenience sample and providing transparency of the treatment being provided. Pre- and post- test scores on the Suicide Status Form (SSF-4) were utilized to evaluate suicidal resolution outcomes of The Hope Institute (THI), a novel approach to outpatient treatment for suicidal ideation. THI was built upon evidence-based models, developing a structured approach to suicide treatment that can be implemented and replicated in an outpatient setting. METHOD: The study sample consisted of 58 participants with a mean age of 20 years. Notably, 31% of participants had no prior mental health diagnosis, reinforcing the need for interventions that address suicide risk beyond traditional psychiatric models. Participants achieved resolution in an average of 5.6 weeks, with 98% successfully completing treatment and 5% experiencing readmission to THI or another facility within 90 days. The timeline reflects the adaptability of THI, with trained clinicians collaborating with patients to determine treatment frequency and focus on a patient-centered, evidence-based, approach to foster patient autonomy and suicidal resolution. CONCLUSION: Individuals in the sample demonstrated statistically significant pre/post improvements in reductions in suicide risk scores, warranting additional research on THI program effectiveness in larger community samples.