Using social media to help reduce suicide risk among servicemembers and veterans
Analysis of a Peer-to-Peer Support Social Media Platform for Service Members and Veterans of the U.S. Military: Intervention 1 (Professional Outreach)
This study tests a new way to use social media to help servicemembers and veterans who might be feeling suicidal to find and get mental health support.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Harvard University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06114849 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial tests a psychoeducational intervention on the social media platform RallyPoint, aimed at encouraging U.S. servicemembers and veterans to seek mental health resources when experiencing distress. The study focuses on individuals whose posts have been flagged for concerning language related to suicidal thoughts or behaviors. By leveraging technology and peer support, the intervention seeks to address barriers that prevent military personnel from accessing traditional mental health care. The goal is to increase the likelihood of reaching out for help through outreach efforts tailored to the unique needs of this population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are active users of RallyPoint who have had posts flagged for concerning language by a machine learning risk algorithm.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had any posts flagged by the machine learning risk algorithm may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly increase the number of servicemembers and veterans who seek help for mental health issues, potentially reducing suicide rates in this high-risk group.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using technology and social media for mental health interventions, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Active RallyPoint users who had at least one post flagged by a machine learning risk algorithm for containing concerning language (e.g., descriptions of suicidal thoughts or behaviors). Exclusion Criteria: * Active RallyPoint users who have not had any posts flagged by a machine learning risk algorithm.
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- RallyPoint Networks, Inc — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kelly Zuromski, Ph.D.
- Email: kelly_zuromski@fas.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-475-0595
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.