Gibbsboro

Researchers are evaluating an intervention called iCHART (integrated Care to Help At-Risk Teens) aimed at reducing suicidal behavior and depression in adolescents aged 12 to 18. This study is part of a larger effort within the ETUDES Center grant focusing on treatment development for risk factors such as sleep problems, anhedonia, and cybervictimization-related stress. The trial will enroll 900 adolescents and compare the iCHART intervention to treatment as usual (TAU), with the goal of decreasing suicide-related events by 50%. The study also aims to assess barriers and facilitators to implementing iCHART and a predictive algorithm to promote health equity across diverse populations. iCHART consists of three components: a Safety Planning App called BRITE to help primary care providers deliver emotion regulation and safety plans to suicidal youth via phone; a Mental Health Screener questionnaire to tailor referrals and treatment plans based on symptoms, preferences, and readiness; and personalized text messages sent for 2-3 weeks to encourage engagement with safety plans and recommended treatments. Participants randomized to the TAU group will receive usual care, which may include a paper safety plan. The study will assess the effectiveness of iCHART in reducing suicide-related events at 6 months, as well as examine mediators like referrals, treatment engagement, and safety planning. Participants will be involved in assessments at baseline and follow-ups at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to measure depression severity and suicidal ideation and behavior. Researchers will also review electronic health records to assess safety planning and treatment engagement. The study includes evaluation of implementation outcomes such as acceptability, feasibility, appropriateness, and cost of iCHART and the predictive algorithm. Caregivers or parents must be involved as legal guardians, and participants need access to a phone or tablet to use intervention components. Overall participation covers multiple months with ongoing monitoring and support.