Preventing suicide in homeless youth who use substances
Official title: Suicide Prevention for Substance Using Youth Experiencing Homelessness
Run by Ohio State University · NCT05994612 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying out a new therapy combined with regular support to see if it can help homeless young people who use drugs and have thoughts of suicide feel better and stay safe.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 15 Years to 24 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Ohio State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, Ohio) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 20, 2023 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2029 |
| Study ends | January 1, 2030 |
| Registry record updated | April 16, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05994612 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are homeless youth aged 15-24 who have experienced recent suicidal thoughts or attempts and have a history of substance use.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who require psychiatric hospitalization will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to address the high rates of suicide among homeless youth who use substances by testing an intervention that combines Cognitive Therapy for Suicide Prevention (CTSP) with standard services. The research will involve 300 participants aged 15-24 who have experienced suicidal ideation or attempts, randomly assigned to receive either CTSP plus usual services or usual services alone. The effectiveness of the intervention will be evaluated over 12 months, focusing on suicidal thoughts, substance use, and depressive symptoms. The study seeks to fill a critical gap in effective prevention strategies for this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce suicidal ideation and attempts among homeless youth who use substances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown some success with cognitive therapy interventions for youth, but this specific approach for homeless youth using substances is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 15-24 years * SSI-W score \> 4 or at least one suicide attempt in prior 12 months * Meets criteria for homelessness * At least four uses of alcohol/drugs in prior 30 days Exclusion Criteria: * Youth requires psychiatric hospitalization
Where it's running
-
The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Natasha Slesnick — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Natasha Slesnick, PhD
- Email: slesnick.5@osu.edu
- Phone: 6142478469
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.