Smartphone app reduces repeat suicide attempts by over half.
New study shows smartphone app OTX-202 cuts repeat suicide attempts by 58.3%.
Why it matters
- Suicide rates have risen over 30% since 1999 in the U.S.
- Effective interventions are needed during high-risk periods post-hospital discharge.
- Digital tools can extend support beyond traditional clinical settings.
By the numbers
- 58.3% reduction in repeat suicide attempts.
- 339 adult patients across six hospitals.
- Study duration: several months, with follow-up up to 24 weeks.
The big picture
- OTX-202 app provides targeted therapeutic lessons, unlike the control app.
- Digital tools can fill gaps in mental health care, especially post-discharge.
- Personalized suicide prevention strategies are crucial for high-risk populations.
What they're saying
- Users express interest and curiosity about the app's availability and functionality.
- Speculation about therapeutic approaches used in the app (DBT and CBT).
Caveats
- The app is not yet publicly available.
- Study focused on patients with a prior history of suicide attempts.
What’s next
- Potential public release of the app.
- Further studies to validate and expand on these findings.