Can a buddy system save young Veterans' lives?

NCT ID NCT05224440

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests a program that pairs soon-to-be-discharged service members with a volunteer sponsor in their hometown. The sponsor helps them with reintegration tasks like finding work, school, or healthcare. Researchers will track 630 veterans in Texas to see if the program reduces difficulties and suicidal thoughts during the risky first year after service.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Veteran Sponsorship Initiative (behavioral intervention with one-on-one sponsors)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a proven way to help veterans adjust to civilian life and lower their risk of suicide during the critical first year after discharge.
What could go wrong: This is an implementation study, not a treatment trial. It tests how to roll out the program, not whether it definitively prevents suicide. Results may vary by location and participant engagement.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Behavior Suicidal Ideation Suicide Prevention

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CONNECTEDNESS HEALTH REINTEGRATION DIFFICULTIES SUICIDAL IDEATION AND BEHAVIORS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Central Texas Veterans Health Care System Waco VA Medical Center, Waco, TX
RECRUITING

Waco, Texas, 76711, United States
James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
RECRUITING

The Bronx, New York, 10468-3904, United States

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