Can a 14-Minute video curb suicidal thoughts? new study tests 'Papageno' approach
NCT ID NCT06842667
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether watching a 14-minute video of people sharing their personal stories of choosing not to attempt suicide can lower suicidal thoughts and hopelessness. Over 500 young adults who had recently wished they were dead watched either the 'Papageno' video or a control video. Researchers measured changes in suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and feelings of control right after viewing.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Papageno story video (a compilation of interviews where people describe times they considered suicide but chose other options)
What this could lead to
If it works, this video could become a simple, low-cost tool to help reduce suicidal thoughts and hopelessness in at-risk young adults.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study with no long-term follow-up. The video may not reduce suicide risk in real-world settings, and results may not apply to everyone.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States