Improving suicide prevention for youth in juvenile detention

Optimizing the Zero Suicide Model for Juvenile Detention

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10990500

This study is all about finding better ways to support the mental health of young people in juvenile detention centers, especially focusing on African American and Black teens who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, and it aims to create helpful programs and train staff to make a real difference in their lives.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10990500 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing mental health support and suicide prevention strategies for youth in juvenile detention centers, particularly targeting African American and Black adolescents. The project aims to implement effective interventions that address the unique challenges faced by these youth, who experience higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. By collaborating with local health departments and utilizing community-engaged approaches, the research seeks to develop and refine practices that can be integrated into juvenile justice settings. The study will also provide training for professionals working with these youth to ensure sustainable mental health equity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American and Black youth currently in juvenile detention facilities who are at risk for suicidal ideation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in juvenile detention or who do not identify as African American or Black may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce suicide rates among youth in juvenile detention, leading to improved mental health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in implementing mental health interventions in juvenile justice settings, indicating a promising approach for this study.

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.