Just a Ring Away: Exploring a Brief Post-Hospitalization Telephone-Based Intervention for Suicidal Behavior in Transitional Age Adults

BACKGROUND: Post-discharge phone interventions have shown efficacy in reducing suicide attempts during the high-risk period following psychiatric hospitalization. However, few studies have examined the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of such interventions in transitional age youth (TAY; ages 18-25), a group at elevated risk for suicidal behavior post-discharge. METHODS: TAY hospitalized psychiatrically for suicidal ideation or suicide attempt (n = 389) received a brief post-discharge telephone intervention consisting of three phone contacts within two weeks. Calls assessed suicidality and reinforced safety planning. Feasibility and costs were examined, along with predictors of outcomes (rehospitalization and suicide attempts within three months). Exploratory analyses compared the intervention cohort with a non-concurrent control group (n = 479) to tentatively examine outcome differences. RESULTS: Among TAY for whom an intervention attempt was made, 60.5% had at least one contact with intervention staff, with low intervention costs (<$60/person). Confidence in the safety plan on the day after discharge predicted suicidal behavior at 90 days. Exploratory analyses indicated similar rates of suicide attempts but higher rehospitalization rates in the intervention cohort versus control cohort. DISCUSSION: Brief, phone-based suicide prevention interventions are feasible and low-cost in real-world settings for TAY. They may help identify high-risk individuals (e.g., those with low confidence in the safety plans) to tailor additional supports. Exploratory results suggest potential benefits and feasibility, warranting further study through randomized controlled trials.