Optimizing Suicide Prevention Strategies for Pediatric Primary Care

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH · Dec 21, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on finding better ways to prevent suicide among young people aged 12 to 17. With increasing concerns about suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents, the study aims to test a digital program that pediatricians can use during regular doctor visits. The goal is to see if this program can effectively help reduce the risk of suicide in youth who are struggling with depression or have thoughts of self-harm.

To participate in the trial, young people must be between 12 and 17 years old and have a parent or guardian who can give permission for them to join. They should also speak and read English, own a smartphone or device, and have moderate to severe depression or suicidal thoughts based on a specific questionnaire. It’s important to note that those with certain medical conditions that might make it hard to understand the study will not be eligible. If chosen to participate, young people can expect to engage with the digital program as part of their usual care, helping researchers learn how effective this approach can be in preventing suicide. This study is not yet recruiting participants, but it holds promise for developing an affordable way to support at-risk youth in primary care settings.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Youth Inclusion:
• • 12-17 years old
• • Parent/legal guardian consents for youth to be in study
• • English fluency and literacy-own a smart phone or device
• • PHQ-9M score indicating moderate or severe depression or suicidal ideation in past month, past 2 weeks, or an attempt in their lifetime
• Caregiver/Parent inclusion:
• • -English fluency and literacy
• Youth Exclusion:
• • evidence of intellectual delay
• • pervasive developmental disorder
• • other condition from medical history that would prohibit comprehension of questions or modules