Brief Suicide Intervention for Suicide Prevention

This trial aims to test a brief intervention designed to prevent suicide in adolescents. Pediatric primary care clinics will host the trial, incorporating elements such as safety planning, coping skills, and psychoeducation. The trial will compare usual treatment methods with a new intervention involving both adolescents and their caregivers. Ideal participants are English-speaking adolescents aged 10 to 18 with low to moderate suicide risk but no current plan or intent to harm themselves. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative approaches in adolescent mental health care.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that short programs to help prevent suicide are generally safe and manageable. These programs effectively reduce thoughts and actions related to suicide. Evidence from several studies indicates significant improvements in mental health and decreases in suicidal thoughts and attempts. These programs often include strategies like safety planning, which helps individuals find ways to cope and avoid dangerous situations. Overall, brief programs for suicide prevention consistently link to better mental health and fewer negative effects.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a new approach to suicide prevention among adolescents. Unlike typical care that follows usual clinic protocols, this trial introduces a pilot intervention with several unique components. It combines psychoeducation, coping skills, safety planning, and family involvement, which are not always standard in existing treatments. By involving both adolescent patients and their parents or caregivers, the intervention aims to create a supportive environment that addresses underlying issues and strengthens family communication, potentially leading to more effective and lasting results in preventing suicide.

Research has shown that suicide safety planning interventions (SSPs) can help reduce suicidal thoughts and actions. Although few studies have focused specifically on children and teens, this approach has shown promise across different age groups. In this trial, participants will receive either treatment as usual or the Pilot Intervention, which includes safety planning. Safety planning involves creating a crisis management plan, learning coping skills, and limiting access to harmful items. Previous research has demonstrated that elements such as mental health education, safety planning, and improved communication skills can lower the risk of suicide. These interventions aim to provide both immediate and long-term support for individuals in crisis.¹²⁶⁷⁸