Study Finds Effective Suicide Prevention for Former Inmates

Groundbreaking research identifies approach to reduce risk after jail release

Feb. 9, 2026 at 11:23pm

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A new study conducted by Michigan State and Brown universities has identified an effective suicide prevention method for individuals recently released from jail. The federally funded trial, which tracked 800 former inmates, found that a "safety planning intervention" involving supportive conversations and follow-up calls reduced suicide risk by half.

Why it matters

Suicide rates are alarmingly high among former inmates, who often lack healthcare connections and support systems upon release. This study provides a promising approach to address this critical public health issue and save lives.

The details

The study, called "Suicide Prevention for At-Risk Individuals in Transition," was conducted in partnership with the Genesee County Jail in Michigan and the Rhode Island Department of Corrections. Researchers found that the "safety planning intervention," which involves creating a personalized plan for coping with suicidal thoughts and regular check-in calls, led to a 55% reduction in suicide attempts and a 42% decrease in suicide-related events among participants.

  • The federally funded study was conducted over the past two years.

The players

Jennifer Johnson

Founding chair of the Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health at Michigan State University, who highlighted the challenge of identifying at-risk individuals who lack healthcare connections.

Chris Swanson

Sheriff of Genesee County, Michigan, who emphasized the importance of building relationships during incarceration and maintaining contact post-release.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

This study provides a critical blueprint for addressing the alarmingly high suicide rates among former inmates, who often lack the support and resources they need upon release. By implementing the "safety planning intervention" approach, communities can take an important step towards saving lives and supporting vulnerable individuals during a high-risk transition period.