Public Messaging for Suicide Prevention in Veterans
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The risk for suicide increases by nearly 50% in the first year that service members transition from the military to civilian life underscoring the need for effective strategies to facilitate help seeking among Veterans vulnerable to self-directed violence. Yet despite a great need for treatment, more than half of returning Veterans at risk for suicide do not initiate mental health services. VA has embarked on the regular use of communication campaigns as part of a public health approach designed to reach the larger Veteran population with messages promoting help seeking. However, what types of messages effectively change beliefs and behaviors for at-risk Veterans resistant to seek treatment is unclear. The main objective of this study is to develop and test the use of public messaging to increase treatment seeking among Veterans at risk for suicide and resistant to seek mental health care following separation from military service. This represents the first study to systematically develop public messaging strategies for populations at risk for suicide.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Messaging, Public Messaging, Communication Campaigns for suicide prevention in veterans?
Research suggests that public service announcement (PSA) campaigns can increase awareness and encourage help-seeking behaviors, which are important for suicide prevention. However, there is limited direct evidence on the effectiveness of these campaigns specifically for veterans, indicating a need for more targeted studies.12345
Is public messaging for suicide prevention in veterans safe?
How is the treatment 'Public Messaging for Suicide Prevention in Veterans' different from other treatments for suicide prevention?
This treatment is unique because it uses strategic communication campaigns to promote suicide prevention and mental health among veterans, focusing on creating effective messages that resonate with this specific group, unlike traditional treatments that may involve medication or therapy sessions.12367
Research Team
Elizabeth Karras-Pilato, PhD
Principal Investigator
VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, Canandaigua, NY
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for U.S. Veterans over 18 who've left the military in the last year, are experiencing suicidal thoughts, and have low intent to seek help but can consent to participate. They must own a smartphone and be willing to use a study app. Those currently or recently in mental health treatment or institutionalized cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Message Exposure
Participants exposed to 4 study videos over a one-month period and complete telephone-based assessments
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in treatment initiation and beliefs about mental health
Wait List Control
Participants receive weekly push notifications while wait-listed
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Messaging
- Wait list control
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor