Treating unhelpful suspicious thoughts in teenagers
This study, called TRUST, is for teenagers aged 16 to 18 in specific schools or colleges in the UK who often have suspicious thoughts, a type of paranoia. These thoughts can be very upsetting and impact their daily life. The study aims to see if a new talking therapy, offered over up to six sessions, can help young people cope with these feelings. Half of the participants will receive this new therapy, while the other half will get standard support. Researchers will compare how well both groups manage their suspicious thoughts. The goal is to find effective ways to support teenagers early on, before these thoughts become more serious.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many teenagers experience suspicious thoughts, which can sometimes be very upsetting and impact their friendships, school life, and overall happiness. These thoughts are a type of paranoia, where someone might feel others intend to harm them, even if there's no real reason for it. While these feelings are quite common, for some young people, they can become a serious problem. If not addressed, they can sometimes lead to more severe mental health issues later on.
Currently, there aren't many treatments specifically designed for teenagers to help with these suspicious thoughts early on. Most support is offered either for very common mental health difficulties or much later, when symptoms become very serious. This study wants to change that. It's looking into a new type of talking therapy called TRUST (Treating Unhelpful Suspicious Thoughts) that could be given in schools.
The main aim of the TRUST study is to see if this new therapy is a good and helpful way to support young people aged 16 to 18 who are struggling with suspicious thoughts. By trying to help teenagers earlier, the researchers hope to prevent these thoughts from becoming more distressing and impacting their lives long-term. This could lead to better support for many young people in the future.
Key takeaways
- A study for 16-18 year olds with frequent suspicious thoughts.
- Compares a new talking therapy (TRUST) to standard support.
- Aims to find better early help for paranoia in young people.
- Takes place in selected schools/colleges.
- Participation involves assessments and possibly therapy or interviews.
- You can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for young people aged 16 to 18 years old who are currently attending a school or college taking part in the study. You need to be experiencing suspicious thoughts or feelings of paranoia fairly often and be interested in getting support to reduce those fears.
You won't be able to join the study if you have serious problems with alcohol or drugs, a significant learning disability, or certain other neurological conditions. Also, if you've already been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, PTSD, or psychosis, or if you're taking antipsychotic medication, this study might not be right for you, as it focuses on earlier intervention.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 16 and 18 years old?
- Do you attend a school or college that is part of this study?
- Do you often have suspicious thoughts or feelings of paranoia?
- Would you like support to help reduce these fears?
- Do you have a clear understanding of what you're agreeing to?
- Do you *not* have a primary problem with alcohol/substance dependence, a significant learning disability, or a current diagnosis of bipolar, PTSD, or psychosis?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll first be asked to provide your permission (consent). Then, you'll be put into one of two groups by chance, like flipping a coin. One group will receive the new TRUST talking therapy, which involves up to six sessions. The other group will receive the standard support usually available. You won't know which group you're in until after this process.
During the study, you'll have some assessments to understand how you're feeling and how the therapy, or standard support, is helping. Some participants will also be invited to have one or two informal chats (interviews) about their experiences taking part in the study and, for those in the therapy group, what they thought of the sessions. The study is expected to run from March 2026 to December 2027.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Pennine Care NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyAshton-under-lyne, England
- Central and North West London NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyLondon, England
Common questions
What exactly are 'suspicious thoughts' or 'paranoia'?
These are worries or fears that others might intend to harm you, even when there's no clear evidence for it. They can be very upsetting.
Will I have to take any medication?
No, this study is looking at a type of talking therapy, not medication.
Which schools are involved?
The study involves mainstream schools in London, Greater Manchester, and surrounding areas in the South and North of England. Your school would tell you if they are participating.
How long will the TRUST therapy sessions be?
The study mentions up to six sessions, but it doesn't specify the length of each session. You can ask the study team for more details.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), a major UK health research funder.
How to find out more
Chris Taylor
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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