Smartphone-based safety plan for suicidal crisis: The SmartCrisis 2.0 pilot study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Clinical Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Smartphone apps offer innovative solutions for mental health interventions.
• Safety plans are crucial for managing suicidal behavior.
• The SmartCrisis 2.0 trial explored a novel digital approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a smartphone app-based safety plan.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction with the digital safety plan intervention.
• To analyze objective usage data of the app's safety plan features.

Main Methods:

• Pilot phase of the SmartCrisis 2.0 Randomized Clinical Trial.
• Recruitment of patients with a history of recent suicidal behavior.
• Utilized qualitative and quantitative patient satisfaction surveys and analysis of completed safety plan texts.

Main Results:

• 105 patients installed the app; 77% participation rate.
• High user ratings: usefulness (7.4/10), usability (8.9/10), recommendation (8.6/10), overall satisfaction (9.6/10).
• Most used features: 'warning signs' (feeling sad/lonely) and 'internal coping strategies' (exercise).

Conclusions:

• The smartphone-based safety plan is a feasible and acceptable intervention for patients at risk of suicide.
• High patient engagement and satisfaction support integration into clinical practice.
• This digital tool shows promise for enhancing suicide prevention strategies.