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Aresty Research Assistant
Social media use, sleep, and teen suicide prevention
Project Summary
Our lab aims to identify modifiable risk factors for the development and worsening of depression and suicidality (i.e., suicidal thoughts and behavior) among adolescents. Our lab seeks to identify who and when adolescents are most at risk for suicidality in real time and across development, with a particular focus on sleep and social media as both potential risk factors and opportunities for intervention. Our research applies a developmentally-informed approach and uses novel technological methods (e.g., smartphone sensing, ecological momentary assessment, actigraphy) to examine risk factors in the real world that are dynamic and modifiable. Our goal is to improve the identification of adolescent suicide risk, as well as the generalizability and scalability of research and interventions aimed at preventing depression and suicide across youth with diverse backgrounds and identities.

Our lab aims to develop a research-community pipeline that enhances the quality of our research and its access to the public and local community. To do this, we disseminate our work and mental health information more broadly by creating accessible media (e.g., infographics, social media), and connecting with local and national organizations, schools, and community organizations!



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