Partnering for Prevention: Strategies to Support Autistic Youth Following a Suicide Attempt
- May 27
- 2 min read
Summary:
Help Improve Mental Health Support for Autistic Youth!
Our research team is working to develop neurodiversity-affirming mental health supports for Autistic youth who have experienced suicidality. We believe that the best supports are created with input from people with lived and professional experience, and we are inviting community members to share their perspectives to inform a brief suicide intervention designed for and with Autistic youth.
Researchers:
This research is being conducted by investigators at the University of Calgary (Dr. Carly McMorris, Dr. Deinera Exner-Cortens, and Dr. Kathleen Chaput), the University of Southern California (Dr. Jessica Schwartzman), and the University of Massachusetts (Dr. Merideth Maroney).
Who can participate?
We are seeking input from Canadian:
- Autistic youth (ages 16-24 years) who have experienced suicidality.
- Caregivers or parents of Autistic youth (ages of 16-24 years) who have experienced suicidality.
- Clinicians who support the mental health of Autistic youth. For example, psychologists, counsellors, physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, and social workers.
What's involved?
Participants will take part in a one-hour interview about what support is most helpful for Autistic youth after a suicide attempt or mental health crisis. Interviews can be completed in a way that works best for you:
- Zoom
- Phone
- In person (Calgary, AB)
- Written responses (if preferred)
We aim to make participation as comfortable and accessible as possible. If there are communication or accessibility accommodations that would help you participate, please let us know.
How will participants be compensated?
Participants will receive a $25 EverythingCard code. However, we would not like to advertise the incentive, as we have been receiving submissions from bots and scammers.
Deadline to participate:
August 31, 2026
Contact information:
