SPARC the Conversation

A Podcast about Stories, Science, and Solutions from the SPARC Trial

What is the SPARC Trial?

  • SPARC is a suicide prevention research trial conducted in Idaho with 1,520 youth and adults.

  • Can a phone call or a text message save a life? In other words, what is the best brief suicide prevention intervention for adults and adolescents who screen positive for suicide risk in emergency departments and primary care clinics?

  • Study participants received one of two interventions to determine which is more effective:

    Instrumental Support Calls

    1-6+ Phone calls focused on problem-solving, getting into treatment, and dealing directly with suicide risk.

    Caring Contacts Text Messages

    Text messages focused on connection, listening, and caring for the participant.

Meet the Hosts

Matthew Biss

Project Manager, Hotline Research Team

Dr. Anna Radin

Anna Radin, MPH DrPH

Principal Investigator, St. Luke’s Applied Research Division

Tara Fouts

Research Coordinator, St. Luke’s Applied Research Division

Episode 1: Help Can’t Wait

In the first episode, we’re introduced to the SPARC Trial and learn why this study was needed. The study design is explained, with national experts describing the two strategies being compared in the trial: Caring Contacts and Instrumental Support Calls.

Episode 2: Crisis to Connection

Hear more about the team from Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline that delivered the follow-up care for the SPARC Trial. The shares their insight and experience from the study, and we learn why 988 hotlines are well-positioned to deliver Caring Contacts and Instrumental Support Calls.

Episode 3: Lived Experience in Research

Learn why it’s important to include patients and people with firsthand experience with suicide in research design. We’ll hear directly from SPARC advisory board members about their experience and impact on the study.

Episode 4: Results and Revelations

The team takes a deep dive into the results of the SPARC trial. We learn about the differences between the adult and adolescent populations and why this is significant. We’ll also get some additional perspective from St. Luke’s clinicians on the importance of this work for patient care.

  • "I appreciate that you care. There has been more than instance that your support kept me alive...I'm not sure if you realize that, and I'm not exaggerating."

  • "Thank you for everything. Seriously. You saved my life...You made me laugh when I didn't know what happy was...you talked me through some of the hardest things I have ever experienced and I can't ever repay you except to say thank you...Thank you a million times."

  • "I think I talk to you because you don't panic when I'm struggling. I can't be honest anywhere else. Thank you for being that place for me."

  • "It's hard to reach out for help. It's nice having someone reach out to me."

  • "Thank you for always being there for me...I really appreciate you and don't think I'd be as stable without you being here."

  • "That text actually meant the world to me."

Additional Information and Resources