Individuals who demonstrate high Anxiety Sensitivity (AS), a fear of arousal-related sensations, are at greater risk for developing a host of psychological conditions, including anxiety and mood disorders as well as suicidality. The present study is a large-scale investigation funded by the Department of Defense that aims to assess the efficacy of a computerized treatment targeting AS for individuals with elevated suicidality. Further, the current study utilizes electroencephalogram (EEG) technology to help determine risk factors for suicidality as well as the effectiveness of the computerized treatment. Participants are hooked up to EEGs and asked to complete several computerized tasks involving viewing graphic, erotic, and neutral pictures as well as responding to visual stimuli on a monitor in front of them. Participants complete eight different tasks, each assessing unique facets of cognitive control, response inhibition, action monitoring, and emotion regulation. Brain waves during these tasks are recorded and examined for individual differences that may help elucidate the nature and effective treatment of suicidality. Results of this ongoing study are not yet available; however, we anticipate our findings to shed light on the neuropsychological processes underlying suicidality and treatment response. Future implications for the current study include: reducing risk factors for anxiety and mood conditions, especially for military personnel, providing a reduced-cost treatment for patients who cannot afford therapy, and making treatment more widely accessible for all.
