Exploring how alcohol affects positive emotions in people with PTSD and alcohol use disorder

Idiographic Examination of Alcohol to Dampen Positive Emotions for Co-morbid Alcohol Use and PTSD

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND · NIH-10730599

This study is looking at how people with PTSD and alcohol use issues might drink to cope with positive feelings, which can sometimes bring back tough memories, and it’s for individuals who have experienced trauma and often drink.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND (nih funded)
Locations1 site (KINGSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10730599 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between alcohol use and positive emotions in individuals who experience both posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). It aims to understand how these individuals may use alcohol to avoid positive emotions, which can trigger trauma-related symptoms. By collecting detailed, real-time data on emotional experiences and alcohol consumption, the study seeks to uncover the dynamics of these interactions in daily life. Participants will be trauma-exposed individuals who regularly drink and experience PTSD symptoms, allowing for a comprehensive examination of their emotional processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have both PTSD and alcohol use disorder and regularly consume alcohol.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have PTSD or alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with co-occurring PTSD and alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research on the role of positive emotions in this context, the study's approach is innovative and aims to fill a gap in existing literature.

Where this research is happening

KINGSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.