Improving suicide risk detection in rural Appalachian schools

Implementing the NIMH Clinical Pathway in Rural Appalachian School-Based Health Clinics

NIH-funded research West Virginia University · NIH-10975089

This study is working to create a helpful program for spotting and managing suicide risk in young people at health clinics in rural Appalachian schools, making sure it fits their unique needs so they can get better mental health support.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWest Virginia University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Morgantown, United States)
Project IDNIH-10975089 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to implement an evidence-based program for detecting and managing suicide risk among youth in rural Appalachian school-based health clinics. It focuses on adapting the NIMH Clinical Pathway, which has been effective in urban settings, to meet the unique needs of rural communities. The study will involve routine screening, assessment, and follow-up for suicide risk, utilizing a mixed methods approach to gather data on local needs and barriers. By tailoring the program to the specific context of rural Appalachia, the research seeks to improve access to mental health care for underserved youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are youth living in rural Appalachian areas who may be at risk for suicide.

Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in rural Appalachian regions or who are not at risk for suicide may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce suicide risk among rural Appalachian youth by improving access to mental health resources.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in implementing similar suicide risk detection programs in urban settings, but this adaptation for rural areas is novel.

Where this research is happening

Morgantown, 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.