Self-Guided Electronic Safety Plan for Suicide Prevention

(Project SAFER Trial)

This trial aims to determine if a self-guided digital safety plan can help teens reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The plan offers a quick, personalized strategy for handling crises and is tested against a standard educational program about suicide resources. It targets teens who have recently experienced suicidal thoughts or attempts and have internet access. The goal is to empower teens to manage crises independently, providing a private, accessible alternative to traditional therapy. As an unphased trial, this study offers teens a unique opportunity to explore innovative, self-guided support strategies for crisis management.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on a digital intervention, so it's likely you can continue your current medications, but please confirm with the trial organizers.

Research has shown that self-guided digital safety plans can be safe and helpful for individuals with suicidal thoughts. Studies have found that these digital plans improve coping, which can lead to fewer suicidal thoughts. Users report finding them useful in a crisis due to their easy access and personalization.

One study examined a digital safety plan app and found it effective in reducing emergency room visits for suicidal behavior. This suggests the plan might help individuals manage their thoughts and actions better.

Researchers are excited about the Self-Guided Electronic Safety Plan for suicide prevention because it offers a new way for individuals to manage their mental health independently. Unlike traditional therapy sessions or hotline support, this intervention is digital and self-directed, giving users the flexibility to access help anytime, anywhere. It empowers individuals by providing them with personalized strategies to handle crises, fostering a sense of autonomy and control, which can be crucial in preventing suicide.

Studies have shown that digital safety plans can greatly reduce suicidal thoughts and actions in adults. New evidence suggests these plans work well for teenagers too. For example, teens with suicidal thoughts reported feeling comfortable using digital safety plans and found them helpful during tough times. Early research indicates that almost half of the young people who used a self-guided digital safety plan found it "very helpful" and used it within a month. This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a Self-Guided Electronic Safety Plan Intervention, which could be a promising tool for preventing suicidal behavior in teenagers.¹²³⁶⁷