Effectiveness of a Continuity-of-Care Model to Reduce Youth Suicidality.

Suicidal ideation and recent suicide attempts greatly increase the risk of suicide among youth. Many youth experiencing suicidality are not adequately connected to in-person treatment. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of a continuity-of-care approach in reducing suicide attempts, ideation, and related hospital and emergency department (ED) visits among youth at high risk for suicide. Data on suicidal ideation, attempts, and related hospital and ED visits were collected over a 6-month period for youth under age 25 ( = 376). One-way repeated measures ANOVA and Cochran's Q tests assessed change from intake at the 3- and 6-month follow-up. Youth had significantly fewer suicide attempts and related hospital and ED visits at both 3- and 6-month timepoints. Suicidal ideation decreased to 52% from intake to 6-month follow-up. This study lacked a comparison population to examine continuity-of-care versus treatment-as-usual. Furthermore, the study did not extend beyond 6 months, limiting the ability to assess the intervention's long-term effectiveness. This youth-focused continuity-of-care model reduced suicidal ideation and related behaviors. Further studies should utilize control groups to confirm the validity of these results.