A digital intervention to help manage emotional pain and reduce alcohol use in people receiving treatment for opioid use disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a brief, digitally-enhanced intervention called IMPROVE, aimed at helping individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) manage emotional pain and reduce their alcohol consumption. The intervention is based on the CANUE model, which identifies emotional distress as a key factor in problematic alcohol use. By targeting anxiety sensitivity and intolerance of uncertainty, the program seeks to break the cycle of addiction and improve treatment outcomes for those on medication for OUD. Participants will engage with the intervention through a virtual platform, allowing for real-time support and assessment.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Ohio State University
  Columbus, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Gorka, Stephanie — Ohio State University
• Study coordinator: Gorka, Stephanie

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.