Using an AI assistant to screen for suicide, depression, and anxiety
Official title: Suicide, depression, and anxiety screening using an automated virtual assistant
Funded at Spreading Activation Technologies, LLC · NIH-10695410 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new app called Clairity™ that uses smart technology to help spot signs of suicide, depression, and anxiety by listening to how people talk, making it easier for schools and healthcare providers to support those who might need help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spreading Activation Technologies, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mason, United States) |
| Project start | August 5, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $458,782 |
| NIH project number | 1R43MH131442-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10695410 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, particularly those who have not yet received screening.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already receiving comprehensive mental health care or those without access to the technology required for the AI screening may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop an AI-enabled application called Clairity™ that automates the screening process for individuals at risk of suicide, depression, and anxiety. By utilizing natural language processing, the app analyzes speech and verbal cues to identify patterns that indicate mental health risks. This approach seeks to overcome the limitations of traditional screening methods, which often rely on subjective interpretation and are hindered by a shortage of mental health professionals. The goal is to provide a reliable and objective tool that can be used in various settings, such as schools and healthcare facilities, to guide at-risk individuals toward necessary interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification and treatment of individuals at risk for suicide and mental health issues, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using AI and machine learning for mental health assessments, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Spreading Activation Technologies, LLC
Mason, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohen, Joshua — Spreading Activation Technologies, LLC
- Study coordinator: Cohen, Joshua
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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.