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Evaluation of an App for Young People With Suicidal Thoughts
Sponsor: University Ghent
Summary
There are currently very few evidence-based tools specifically designed to support children and adolescents experiencing suicidal thoughts. Digital interventions are increasingly used in suicide prevention and show promise in helping young people improve emotional regulation, coping skills, and manage suicidal thoughts and behaviors. In Flanders, the app BackUp was developed in 2015 by VLESP to support adults with suicidal thoughts. Research showed that while the app led to a small, non-significant reduction in suicidal thoughts after one week, 70% of users found it helpful in daily life. A key feature of the app is the Safety Plan, based on cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps individuals identify coping strategies and sources of support. This approach has proven effective in reducing suicidal behavior and is also suitable for use with children and adolescents. Despite these developments, there is still a need for a digital tool specifically tailored to young people. In 2023, the investigators launched a project to develop a new app in collaboration with youth care professionals, app developers, and adolescents with lived experience of suicidality. Their input ensures the app meets the needs and preferences of young users. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and usability of the app through a pilot study involving adolescents aged 12-17 who are currently experiencing suicidal thoughts. Participants and their parents or guardians must provide informed consent before joining the study. The evaluation includes online questionnaires completed before and after using the app. These questionnaires collect information on demographics, coping strategies, and the severity of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The post-assessment also includes questions about user experience and satisfaction. No interviews are conducted; all data are collected digitally. Participants are recruited through various channels and must meet specific inclusion criteria. After completing the initial questionnaire, they receive a code to access the app, ensuring that only study participants can use it.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
12 Years - 17 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2025-09-12
Completion Date
2026-04-01
Last Updated
2025-11-17
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Smartphone App
This intervention is a mobile app co-created with adolescents who have experienced suicidal thoughts. It is specifically designed for youth aged 12-17 and includes a Safety Plan, tools such as a HopeBox, and psychoeducational content for young people, their loved ones, and care providers. Furthermore, there is a 'Help' button, offering direct access to crisis support. Unlike existing apps for adults, this app is tailored to the developmental needs and lived experiences of adolescents. Access is restricted to study participants to ensure controlled evaluation.
Locations (1)
Flemish Centre of Expertise in Suicide Prevention, Ghent University
Ghent, Belgium