Comparing text message interventions for suicide prevention

Comparing the Effectiveness of Two-Way Caring Contacts Texts vs One-Way Caring Contacts Texts vs Enhanced Usual Care to Reduce Suicidal Behavior in Youth and Adults Screening At-Risk for Suicide in Primary Care or Behavioral Health Clinics

NA · St. Luke's Health System, Boise, Idaho · NCT06128239

This study is testing whether two-way text messages can better help prevent suicide in adults and teens compared to one-way messages and regular care.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment849 (estimated)
Ages12 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSt. Luke's Health System, Boise, Idaho (other)
Locations1 site (Boise, Idaho)
Trial IDNCT06128239 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial evaluates the effectiveness of two-way Caring Contacts text messages compared to one-way messages and enhanced usual care for preventing suicide in both adults and adolescents. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the three intervention groups to assess which method is most effective in reducing suicide risk. The study aims to utilize technology to improve follow-up care for individuals identified as at risk for suicide. The trial is conducted within St. Luke's Health System, leveraging their primary care and behavioral health clinics.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adolescents aged 12-17 and adults 18 and older who have indicated suicidal risk on a screening tool.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent due to cognitive impairments or those who have previously participated in related trials may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved suicide prevention strategies that effectively engage at-risk individuals through technology.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using text message interventions for mental health support, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adolescents (12-17 years old) and adults (18+)
* Response of "yes" to at least one item on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) six-item screener at a St. Luke's Health System (SLHS) primary care or behavioral health clinic, or electronic health record or provider note from an eligible encounter indicates suicide risk
* Ability to send and receive text messages
* Ability to receive phone calls
* Ability to receive emails
* Participant and legal guardian (if applicable) speak, read, and understand English
* Accommodations may be made for individuals with impaired hearing

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who participated in a previous randomized controlled trial in the same health system related to Caring Contacts (SPARC Trial or MHAPPS Trial)
* Patients who are unable or unwilling to provide informed consent\*, for example, due to acute or chronic cognitive impairment (i.e.: acute psychosis, intoxication, or intellectual disability).
* Primary Care Provider, Behavioral Health Provider, or Principal Investigator determines that participation in the research is not in the best interest of the patient or the study team.

Where this trial is running

Boise, Idaho

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Suicide, Suicide Prevention, Suicide and Self-harm, Caring Contacts, brief contact intervention, adult, adolescent, primary care

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.