Training family and friends to help prevent Veteran suicides
Randomized Controlled Effectiveness Trial of VA S.A.V.E. Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training for Veterans’ Close Supports
This study is all about helping family and friends of Veterans learn how to spot signs that someone might be at risk for suicide and how to support them in getting the help they need, using a special training program called VA S.A.V.E.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861440 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on training close supports of Veterans, such as family members and friends, to recognize signs of suicide risk and effectively assist Veterans in seeking professional help. The VA S.A.V.E. program teaches essential skills through a structured training approach, aiming to empower those closest to Veterans to act as gatekeepers in suicide prevention. By utilizing innovative methods like social media outreach and standardized patient simulations, the study evaluates the effectiveness of this training in real-world scenarios.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Veterans who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts and their close supports who are willing to participate in the training.
Not a fit: Patients who are not Veterans or do not have close supports willing to engage in the training may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the ability of family and friends to support Veterans at risk of suicide, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results for similar training approaches, indicating potential for success in this larger trial.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Portland VA Medical Center — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teo, Alan — Portland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Teo, Alan
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 below.