Exploring how isolation and loneliness affect alcohol use during stressful times.
Official title: Isolation and Loneliness Underlying Misuse and Increased Use of Alcohol as a function of Stress and Coping Efforts
Funded at University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-10916345 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how feeling lonely and isolated, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, affects how much alcohol people drink, and it explores whether certain coping strategies can help or make things worse. If you're an adult who has experienced these feelings, your insights could help us understand these important issues better!
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Storrs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $452,356 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA029828-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916345 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who have experienced feelings of loneliness or isolation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience loneliness or isolation, or who do not consume alcohol, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between social isolation, feelings of loneliness, and alcohol consumption, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines how different coping strategies can either help or hinder individuals in managing their alcohol use in response to stress. By analyzing data collected from a national sample of adults, the study aims to identify patterns and factors that contribute to alcohol misuse linked to loneliness and stress. Participants will provide self-reported information on their experiences, which will be used to develop a deeper understanding of these issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for individuals struggling with alcohol misuse related to loneliness and stress.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that social isolation and coping strategies significantly impact alcohol use, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Storrs
Storrs-Mansfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Crystal L. — University of Connecticut Storrs
- Study coordinator: Park, Crystal L.
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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.