Exploring how racism affects suicidal thoughts in Black children with ADHD
Official title: Understanding the multilevel impact of racism on suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Black children with ADHD: Intersectionality, Risk, and Protective Factors
Funded at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11092771 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how experiences of racism affect suicidal thoughts and feelings in Black children aged 5 to 11 who have ADHD, with the goal of finding ways to help keep them safe and support their mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | May 22, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $635,073 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134050-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092771 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black children aged 5 to 11 diagnosed with ADHD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have ADHD or are outside the age range of 5 to 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of racism on suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Black children aged 5 to 11 who have ADHD. It aims to understand how both structural and interpersonal racism contribute to the mental health challenges faced by these children. By examining various risk and protective factors, the study seeks to identify ways to mitigate the risks associated with suicidal thoughts. The findings will help inform targeted suicide prevention strategies for this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health interventions and support systems for Black children with ADHD, reducing their risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: While the intersection of racism and mental health in children is an emerging area of research, previous studies have shown that addressing social determinants can improve health outcomes, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spencer, Andrea — Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Spencer, Andrea
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.