Integrated Intervention for Caregivers--Pilot RCT

This intervention will consist of electronic and Care Support Manager (CSM) contacts with parents from the first week following their adolescent's discharge from hospitalization through the first 3 months after discharge. The electronic application content will be accessible and delivered to parents weekly. Parents will also be able to enter a keyword on their electronic device to access content and material in real time. The CSM contacts will supplement the informational content delivered electronically by providing opportunities to ask questions about the electronic application material, and by checking on progress toward treatment follow through for their youth, identifying and problem solving any difficulties and concerns, and addressing health needs of each parent.

TAU typically involves a discharge planning session by unit staff with the adolescent and their parent(s) to discuss safety monitoring and referrals for mental health services following discharge from psychiatric hospitalization. Investigators will augment this usual care by providing written materials to families outlining some of the key considerations for caring for their adolescent. These written materials will include brochures with information for parents following adolescent suicidal behavior, a listing of resources including instructions for when to call 911 or go to the emergency room, and information regarding the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Written materials will be provided to both the enhanced TAU participants as well as participants receiving the electronic and CSM intervention.