Community-led strategies to help Indigenous people overcome stimulant use
Official title: Strength in HEALing: Indigenous Community-Led Strategies to Treat Stimulant Use
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11059523 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to help American Indian and Alaska Native adults who are struggling with stimulant use by offering rewards for staying drug-free and connecting them to helpful resources, all in a way that respects their culture and needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $809,042 |
| NIH project number | 1R61DA062357-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059523 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are American Indian and Alaska Native adults aged 21 and older who are struggling with stimulant use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as American Indian or Alaska Native or who are not experiencing stimulant use issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and implementing culturally responsive interventions to address stimulant use disorders among American Indian and Alaska Native adults. It utilizes a method called contingency management, where participants receive rewards for submitting urine samples that show abstinence from stimulants. The study also aims to tackle barriers to treatment, such as educational challenges and mental health issues, by providing care coordination that connects participants to necessary resources. The goal is to create a supportive environment that enhances treatment retention and effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce stimulant use and improve overall health outcomes for Indigenous communities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using contingency management in similar populations have shown promising results in reducing substance use.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hirchak, Katherine — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Hirchak, Katherine
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.