Training for family and friends to help prevent Veteran suicide
Randomized Controlled Effectiveness Trial of VA S.A.V.E. Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training for Veterans' Close Supports
This study is testing a training program for family and friends of Veterans to see if it helps them recognize signs of suicide risk and connect those Veterans to the care they need.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 710 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Portland, Oregon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06470867 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial evaluates the effectiveness of VA S.A.V.E., a suicide prevention training program designed for family members, caregivers, and friends of Veterans. The program teaches participants how to identify signs of suicide risk and connect at-risk Veterans to professional care. By utilizing innovative methods such as social media outreach and standardized patient simulations, the study aims to assess the impact of this training on suicide prevention efforts. The research aligns with the VA's National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide, focusing on enhancing support systems for Veterans.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are family members, caregivers, or friends of Veterans who have regular social contact with them.
Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those without internet access or those who have previously completed the VA S.A.V.E. training.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this training could empower close supports to effectively intervene and connect Veterans at risk of suicide with necessary care.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies of VA S.A.V.E. have shown promise, indicating that this approach could be effective in suicide prevention.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Family member, caregiver, or friend of a Veteran * Social contact with a Veteran at least once a week Exclusion Criteria: * Not providing a valid phone number and email address * No internet access * Indication of duplicate study entry * Previously taken, or intending to soon take, VA S.A.V.E. training
Where this trial is running
Portland, Oregon
- VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR — Portland, Oregon, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Alan R. Teo, MD MS — VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR
- Study coordinator: Kaitlin M Leonard, BA
- Email: kaitlin.leonard@va.gov
- Phone: (503) 220-8262
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.