Follow-Up Support for Caregivers After Youth Mental Health ER Visits

(SCFMHEDV Trial)

This trial explores ways to support caregivers of youth aged 10-17 after a mental health emergency room visit for suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It seeks to determine if follow-up phone calls or automatic messages through MyChart (a patient portal) can enhance caregivers' ability to support these youth. The trial includes three groups: one receiving standard treatment, another receiving follow-up phone calls, and a third receiving automatic MyChart messages. Caregivers of youth discharged with a safety plan after an ED visit for suicidal thoughts or behaviors may be suitable participants, especially if they are comfortable using MyChart. As an unphased trial, this study offers caregivers a unique chance to contribute to innovative support strategies that could significantly impact the lives of youth facing mental health challenges.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that using automatic MyChart messages for follow-up care is generally safe. These messages provide educational content and support for safety plans, assisting caregivers. Studies have examined how teens and caregivers use and perceive these hospital-based electronic records, and no major safety concerns have been reported in similar settings.

Past research has demonstrated that follow-up phone calls can be safely used in mental health care for young people. These calls often involve conversations with mental health professionals and help families maintain their connection to necessary care. No significant safety issues have been reported from these calls.

Researchers are excited about these follow-up support methods for caregivers after youth mental health ER visits because they offer innovative ways to bridge the gap in mental health care. Unlike standard care, which typically involves minimal follow-up, the automatic MyChart messages provide consistent educational content and support, helping caregivers implement safety plans and connect to follow-up care. The telephone calls offer personalized support from a psychiatric social worker, ensuring families have a direct line of communication and tailored guidance. These approaches aim to enhance engagement and continuity of care, potentially improving outcomes for young patients.

This trial will compare different follow-up support methods for caregivers after a child's mental health emergency. Research has shown that follow-up actions like automatic MyChart messages, which participants in one arm of this trial may receive, help caregivers stay informed and involved with safety plans and follow-up care. Specifically, past patients found that regular communication through these messages supported mental health recovery. In another arm of this trial, participants will receive phone calls. Research on telemental health suggests that regular check-ins by mental health professionals improve access to care and provide emotional support for families. These methods offer steady support, which is crucial after a crisis.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰