Understanding how suicide spreads in communities
Suicide as a contagion: modeling and forecasting emergent outbreaks
This study looks at how and why suicide rates change over time and in different places, using information from online searches and support hotlines, to create a helpful warning system that can improve prevention and support in schools and communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10741803 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the patterns and factors contributing to suicide rates by analyzing data from various sources, including Google Trends and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. By modeling suicide as a communicable process, the study aims to identify how suicidal behaviors cluster in specific locations and times. The goal is to develop a warning system that can help inform prevention and treatment strategies in schools and communities. This approach combines statistical and mathematical modeling to better understand the epidemic of suicide.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who may be experiencing mental health disorders or are at risk of suicide.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health responses and prevention strategies for reducing suicide rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using statistical models to understand the spread of infectious diseases, suggesting that this novel approach to studying suicide may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keyes, Katherine M. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Keyes, Katherine M.
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.