Caring Connections for Suicide Prevention
(CA-LINC Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The trial aims to determine if a program called Caring Connections can reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors in high-risk youth by improving access to support services. Caring Connections is a 90-day intervention offering culturally adapted care and support strategies to enhance hope, family relationships, and service engagement. Participants aged 13-19 with recent or ongoing suicidal thoughts or behaviors may be suitable, especially if they have struggled to access mental health services before. The trial compares Caring Connections with standard care to assess which is more effective at lowering suicide risk and improving service use. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to innovative mental health solutions tailored to their needs.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider.
What prior data suggests that the Caring Connections intervention is safe for high-risk suicidal youth?
Research has shown that the Caring Connections program aims to reduce thoughts and behaviors related to suicide in high-risk youth by increasing their engagement with services. This community-focused program emphasizes cultural support, empowerment, and motivation. Although the program is still in development and lacks extensive safety data, its focus on care coordination rather than medication suggests a low risk of physical side effects.
The inclusion of peer support specialists and community health workers enhances safety, as trained individuals guide and support participants, reducing risks associated with medication-based treatments. While detailed safety data is not yet available, the program's emphasis on building social connections and support is known to protect against suicide. Participants can expect efforts to create supportive environments and improve family relationships, which are generally well-received.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Caring Connections intervention because it offers a culturally tailored approach to suicide prevention, specifically designed for youth. Unlike the standard treatment, which often involves typical referrals to inpatient or outpatient care based on risk levels, Caring Connections integrates culturally promotive factors and motivational strategies to enhance strengths and promote hope. This approach also emphasizes creating a supportive network, or "village of care," involving Peer Support Specialists and Community Health Workers in faith-based settings, which helps standardize and improve access to care. By focusing on these unique elements, Caring Connections aims to improve service engagement and reduce suicidal ideation and behaviors more effectively than traditional methods.
What evidence suggests that the Caring Connections intervention could be effective for reducing suicide ideation and behaviors in high-risk suicidal youth?
Research has shown that Caring Connections, the intervention tested in this trial, has a strong history of reducing suicidal thoughts and attempts. Studies have found that similar programs can lower the risk of self-harm by 38% and increase participants' hope for recovery. Caring Connections uses personalized messages and community support to engage and uplift young people. Participants in this trial may receive Caring Connections, which has reportedly made them feel more connected and supported, crucial for improving mental health. This approach has proven effective in various settings and shows promise for reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in high-risk youth.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sonyia Richardson, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
UNC Chapel Hill
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for high-risk suicidal youth aged 13-19 who can participate in a care coordination intervention. Caregivers of these youths and professionals experienced with suicidal youth are also included.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the Caring Connections intervention, a 90-day culturally adapted LINC intervention designed to reduce suicide ideation and behavior by improving service engagement and delivery standards.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with assessments at 180 days.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Caring Connections
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Lead Sponsor
Village Heartbeat, Inc.
Collaborator