Intervention Effect of Metaphorical Cognitive Restructuring on Alleviating Depression and Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Study

This study was designed to explore whether metaphorical cognitive restructuring has an additional effect on alleviating depression and suicide ideation among adolescents compared with literal cognitive restructuring. Participants with a score > 7 on the Beck Depression Inventory in the intervention (n = 30) and control (n = 30) groups were treated with metaphorical cognitive restructuring and general language interventions, respectively. The intervention effect was evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation - Chinese Version, Heartland Forgiveness Scale, and Self in a Social Context - Social Connectedness Scale. After the intervention, participants showed meaningful improvements in forgiveness and social connectedness, as well as reduction in depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation.