Caring Connections Youth Suicide Prevention Randomized Control Trial A Culturally Adapted Care Coordination Intervention for High-Risk Suicidal Youth

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating Caring Connections, a culturally adapted care coordination intervention designed for high-risk suicidal youth aged 13 to 19. This pilot randomized control trial aims to test the feasibility of Caring Connections to reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors by improving engagement with mental health services. The study also compares Caring Connections to Treatment as Usual to assess differences in suicide ideation, behaviors, and engagement among youth. The intervention incorporates community and cultural input, empowerment, motivational strategies, and family relationship support to promote hope and strength. The study involves two groups: one receiving Caring Connections and the other receiving Treatment as Usual. Caring Connections is a 90-day intervention delivered by Peer Support Specialists and Community Health Workers based in mental health hubs within Faith-Based Organizations. It includes ongoing suicide risk monitoring, service referrals, safety plan development, and building supportive care networks. Treatment as Usual includes standard care coordination with crisis response and referral services, typically involving risk screening and one-time follow-up. Both interventions aim to connect youth and families to appropriate resources. Participants include youth with recent suicidal ideation or behaviors, their caregivers, and relevant healthcare providers or community stakeholders. Data collection occurs at baseline, 30, 90, and 180 days, with evaluations conducted by blinded research assistants. The trial measures changes in suicide ideation severity and reported suicide attempts over time. Researchers will also assess the acceptability, practicality, integration, treatment adherence, fidelity, and retention related to Caring Connections. The study runs through October 2026 and includes follow-up to evaluate service engagement and suicide risk reduction.

Caring Connections Youth Suicide Detection and Intervention Study