Comparing smartphone interventions to reduce alcohol-related issues during COVID-19

Family-focused vs. Drinker-focused Smartphone Interventions to Reduce Drinking-related Consequences of COVID-19

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10700053

This study is looking at two different smartphone programs to help people who drink too much alcohol, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it includes both the drinkers and their family members to see which approach works best for everyone involved.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10700053 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 family members to address relationship dynamics and promote overall well-being. The study will involve 198 pairs of drinkers and their family members, who will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group, a drinker-focused intervention, or a family-focused intervention. The goal is to assess the effectiveness of these interventions over an 8-month period, followed by a 4-month follow-up.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing alcohol-related issues, particularly in the context of COVID-19.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or are not affected by alcohol-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective interventions that help individuals and their families manage alcohol use and its consequences during and after the pandemic.

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 pandemic.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.