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Leveraging Noninvasive Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Smartphone Technology to Reduce Suicidal Behaviors and Suicide Among Highly Vulnerable Adolescents

Research Overview

Our study will recruit 200 families with adolescents across two sites. Eligibility criteria for adolescent participants include elevated scores on one or more specified risk factors, such as non-suicidal self-injury, emotional dysregulation, and social isolation. Adolescents and one parent will participate in three meetings with the study team over one year. Following the initial visit, adolescents will be randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups. The intervention, which will be self-administered by the adolescents at home for 30 days, includes the use of a transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) device (Xen), a mobile phone application designed to address social isolation, and a smartwatch to monitor activity and sleep patterns. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the Xen device and mobile application on adolescent mental health outcomes.

We are currently recruiting teens aged 13-17, with a parent. Must have access to a smartphone, and score high on one of six risk factors: Emotional Dysregulation, NSSI, Anxiety, Hyperactivity, Social Isolation, Risky Behavior. Teens must be within the South Bend, IN, or Rochester, NY areas to attend in-person visits. Parents will be paid up to $150 for the three visits, while teens can earn up to $220 for the three visits. Teens cannot participate if they have certain medical diagnoses or medical concerns. Please contact the office to see if your teen qualifies. 

Funded By

Age Group

• Adolescents
• Adults

Investigators

Kristin Valentino, Professor of Psychology

Research Impact