Creating a digital tool to help teenagers who self-injure

Developing a Digital Intervention for Adolescent Nonsuicidal Self-injury

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11060283

This study is creating a helpful online tool for teens aged 14 to 17 who hurt themselves in non-suicidal ways, making it easier for them to get support and learn coping strategies without feeling judged.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060283 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a digital mental health intervention specifically for adolescents aged 14 to 17 who engage in nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). The project aims to address the barriers that prevent these young individuals from seeking help, such as stigma and lack of access to traditional mental health services. By collaborating with Mental Health America, the research will create a user-friendly digital platform that provides evidence-based psychological strategies tailored to the unique needs of adolescents. The effectiveness of this intervention will be evaluated to ensure it meets the preferences of the target population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 14 to 17 who engage in nonsuicidal self-injury and are seeking help.

Not a fit: Patients who do not engage in self-injury or are outside the age range of 14 to 17 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide adolescents with accessible and effective support for managing self-injury behaviors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with digital mental health interventions for various conditions, indicating potential for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.