Identifying short-term suicide risk in high-risk Veterans
Official title: Neurocognitive markers of short-term risk for suicidal behavior in high-risk Veterans
Funded at VA New Jersey Health Care System · NIH-11090321 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain thinking skills can help us understand the short-term risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in Veterans, using computer tests instead of just asking how they feel, to find better ways to support those who might be in danger.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA New Jersey Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Orange, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2019 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX001826-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090321 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who have recently experienced suicidal thoughts or behaviors and are currently receiving care in acute psychiatric settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific cognitive functions can help predict short-term risk of suicidal behavior in Veterans. By using a series of computer-based tests, the study aims to objectively assess cognitive domains such as impulse control and distractibility, rather than relying solely on self-reported feelings. Veterans who have recently experienced suicidal events will be recruited from psychiatric units and evaluated at regular intervals over a year. The goal is to develop a reliable method for identifying those at immediate risk, which could lead to more targeted interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for preventing suicide among Veterans by accurately identifying those at immediate risk.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using cognitive assessments to predict suicidal behavior, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
VA New Jersey Health Care System
East Orange, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Myers, Catherine E — VA New Jersey Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Myers, Catherine E
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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.