How social media affects suicide risk in teenage girls

Social Media Use and Mechanisms of Suicide Risk in Adolescents

NIH-funded research Rhode Island Hospital · NIH-10868464

This study is looking at how using social media might affect suicidal thoughts and feelings in girls aged 14-17 who have experienced these issues before, with the hope of finding ways to help those who are struggling.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRhode Island Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868464 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between social media use and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescent girls. By analyzing data from social media platforms and conducting laboratory experiments, the study aims to identify specific experiences that may increase the risk of suicide. The research will involve both existing datasets and new data collection from adolescent females aged 14-17 who have a history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms at play and to develop targeted interventions for those most at risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescent females aged 14-17 with a history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use social media or do not have a history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and intervention strategies for adolescent girls at risk of suicide due to social media use.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated a concerning link between social media use and mental health issues in adolescents, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.