Can a smartphone app prevent suicide? small study tests new tool

NCT ID NCT05180383

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Butler Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested a smartphone app called MAPS designed to help people who have had suicidal thoughts or behaviors. The app includes a safety plan, daily mood check-ins, and direct contact with a clinician. Ten adults who recently experienced suicidal thoughts used the app to see if it was easy to use and helpful. The goal was not to prove the app works, but to see if people would use it and find it acceptable.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Mobile Application to Prevent Suicide (MAPS) - a smartphone app with safety planning, mood check-ins, and clinician contact
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a new, accessible tool to help people manage suicidal thoughts and reduce self-harm.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early feasibility study with only 10 participants. It is not designed to prove the app works, only that it is acceptable and usable. Results may not apply to larger or more diverse groups.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Self-Injurious Behavior Suicidal Ideation Suicide Suicide, Attempted

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SUICIDAL IDEATION SUICIDE SUICIDE AND SELF-HARM SUICIDE, ATTEMPTED

Contacts and locations

Locations

Brown University

Providence, Rhode Island, 02912, United States
Butler Hospital

Providence, Rhode Island, 02906, United States

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