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

NCT ID NCT05180383

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.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Brown University

    Providence, Rhode Island, 02912, United States

  • Butler Hospital

    Providence, Rhode Island, 02906, United States