Exploring Life Events Prior to Death by Suicide

Purpose

We are interested in creating better means of suicide prevention. One way to do this is by discussing suicide with those who have lost a loved one. If you are a survivor of loss, we want to hear the story of your loved one. We believe that by investigating the experiences of an individual prior to their death, we can better understand important risks that are often overlooked in current suicide prevention efforts. 

This information may help to build better connections to prevent others from going through this loss.  

We are looking to interview individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide with the purpose of exploring what life events their loved one had experienced, and what professional or social services they sought out prior to their death. Interviews will be over telephone or online through Zoom. If you are willing, we want to listen to your story. As someone who knew the deceased best, you may be able to share information that can impact suicide prevention. We know that this loss may be difficult to discuss, and we thank you for considering this study.  

Keywords: suicide, suicide prevention

Study Sites

This is a virtual study. Participation is not limited to a location.

 
  • Men & Women
Age icon
18 +
 
 

You may be eligible to participate if you have lost a loved one to suicide in the last year. To participate or learn more, please visit http://bit.ly/USCSuicidePrevention 

A study coordinator from the University of Southern California will contact you. 

For questions about the study, please contact Dr. Blosnich at SPStudy@usc.edu or 323-990-0982 

OR
 

What's involved?

Study length

  • 30-45 minutes

Number of visits

  • 1

Prescription

  • None

Procedures

  • Interview

Compensation

  • Amazon Gift Card

Medical cost coverage

  • None

Why participate?

You can directly impact suicide prevention efforts by sharing the story of your loved one.

Eligibility

Must have

  • Lost a loved one to suicide in the last year.
  • Access to either phone or internet for the interview.
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Consent to participate in research.

Study Team

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Principal Investigator
John Blosnich

For questions about this study, contact:

  • IRB number: UP-21-00420
  • Study posted on: TBD
  • Recruitment period: TBD

Research study materials

We respect your privacy!

All the information you give us is stored in a secure, password protected database. All the information that you choose to share will be kept private and confidential. Read University of Southern California's Privacy Policy here.