Brain Changes and Social Reward Psychotherapy for Suicidality in Adults Aged 50 to 80

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand how social disconnection affects suicidality and depression in middle-aged and older adults. It focuses on the Positive Valence System PVS in the brain, which is involved in experiencing social rewards. The study evaluates changes in brain function and behavior related to this system during psychotherapy using advanced imaging and clinical measures. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two 9-week psychotherapy programs. The first, Engage & Connect, is delivered remotely and encourages engaging in rewarding social activities through personalized action plans with a therapist. The second, Symptom Review and Psychoeducation SRP, involves reviewing symptoms and providing education about depression and aging to help participants better understand their condition. Participants will complete four research assessments and three MRI scans at baseline, midtreatment week 6, and post-treatment week 9. Researchers will measure changes in brain connectivity and reaction times related to social feedback. The study includes monitoring of symptoms and brain activity to assess treatment effects over the 9-week period. Participation lasts for the duration of the treatment and assessments.

Brain Changes During Social Reward Psychotherapy for Mid- and Late-Life Suicidality