NCT05654207 · New York University
WeCare: A System of Care for Black Youth
(WeCare)
What this study is about
The overall goal of this study is to respond to the urgent need for an effective suicide prevention strategy for Black youth by examining the effectiveness of a systems-level strategy to recognize and respond to suicide risk among Black adolescents who present to emergency departments (EDs).
View original scientific description
The overall goal of this study is to respond to the urgent need for an effective suicide prevention strategy for Black youth by examining the effectiveness of a systems-level strategy to recognize and respond to suicide risk among Black adolescents who present to emergency departments (EDs). The proposed strategy, WeCare, combines combines three components: (1) universal screening using the Computerized Adaptive Screen for Suicidal Youth (CASSY), (2) a brief intervention designed for Black youth with elevated suicide risk in for ED settings, Connections for Safety (CFS), that combines safety planning and strategies to support linkage to outpatient mental health services, and (3) supportive text messages to youth and parent/caregivers for six weeks following the youth's ED visit. Study objectives are (1) to integrate input from multiple stakeholders to inform and facilitate WeCare implementation, and (2) to use a hybrid one effectiveness-implementation design to evaluate its effectiveness.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
WeCare
WeCare combines two evidence-based strategies -- universal screening using the Computerized Adaptive Screen for Suicidal Youth and an adapted version of the SAFETY-ACUTE, which incorporates PI Lindsey's extensive work with Black youth, their families, and community stakeholders to develop culturally tailored strategies for addressing treatment barriers.
Primary outcome measures
Mental Health Outpatient Visits (Electronic Medical Record)
Time frame: Baseline, Months 3 and 6
This measure assesses mental health service utilization from 50 patient care locations in New York City via electronic medical records.
Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale
Time frame: Baseline, Months 3 and 6
This measure is a semi structured interview to assess suicidal ideation and attempt This measure is a semi structured interview to assess suicidal ideation and attempt behavior (actual, interrupted, aborted suicide attempts; preparatory behavior).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- adolescent and parent/guardians:
- Adolescents aged 12-17 years and their parents or guardians, and adolescents 18-19 years who have the option for their parent or guardian to participate
- Having a parent/caregiver present in the ED to consent or available to consent remotely (12-17 year olds, only)
- Having a cellular phone with text messaging capacity
- Adolescent able to speak English, and understand study questions
- Parents able to consent in English, Spanish, French or Creole
- Meet screening criteria
Exclusion criteria
- adolescent and parent/guardians:
- Adolescent is medically unstable
- Adolescent present with severe cognitive impairment
- Parents are not present in the ED, unable to consent remotely, and not able to give consent in either English, Spanish, French or Creole (12-17 year olds, only)
- Adolescent does not have access to cellular phone
- Adolescents active in mental health treatment (e.g., seen a therapist, social worker, or mental health provider in the last week)
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
University of Michigan
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations