Comparing smartphone interventions for reducing alcohol-related issues during COVID-19
Family-focused vs. Drinker-focused Smartphone Interventions to Reduce Drinking-related Consequences of COVID-19
This study is looking at two different smartphone programs to help people who are struggling with alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic—one that supports the drinker directly and another that involves both the drinker and a family member to help them work together and improve their relationship.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194616 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates two different smartphone interventions aimed at reducing the negative consequences of alcohol use exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. One intervention focuses on the drinker, providing resources and support tailored to their needs, while the other involves both the drinker and a family member, promoting joint behavior change and relationship improvement. The study will randomly assign participants to one of three groups: a control group, a drinker-focused intervention, or a family-focused intervention, over an 8-month period with follow-up support. The goal is to assess the effectiveness of these interventions in addressing alcohol use and its related challenges during and after the pandemic.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing alcohol-related issues and have a family member willing to participate.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have access to smartphones or those who are not currently experiencing alcohol-related problems may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective smartphone-based interventions that help individuals and their families manage alcohol use and improve overall well-being during challenging times.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with smartphone interventions for alcohol use, making this approach promising yet tailored to the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gustafson, David H — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Gustafson, David H
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 below.