Caring contact SMS text messages following suicidal behaviour

Introduction Caring contact SMS text messages were designed as a brief suicide prevention intervention to support service users ( tangata whaiora ) after suicidal behaviour. The aim of this exploratory research was to evaluate responses to receiving a series of caring contact messages via SMS, culturally tailored to a New Zealand context. Method Participants presenting to an Emergency Department after suicidal behaviour were sent a series of seven SMS text messages. In this qualitative study, participants were interviewed by phone to evaluate their experiences of receiving SMS. Individual interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Reflexive thematic analysis was performed in three cycles of coding. Results Three themes were identified: connection to the caring essence of text messages, strengthening of self-agency by the message series, and cultural dimensions that support healing, including use of te reo Māori (Māori language). Conclusion SMS is acceptable as a means to reach and connect with people after an episode of suicidal behaviour. Tailoring messages to an individual’s culture and context can potentially enhance their therapeutic value. Further research is recommended to evaluate upscaling through automated delivery, the use of apps, and use of language via SMS.