Exploring how self-compassion affects treatment outcomes for veterans with alcohol use disorder and PTSD.

The effect of self-compassion on integrated treatment outcomes among veterans with co-occurring AUD and PTSD.

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10922720

This study is looking at how being kind to yourself can help veterans with alcohol use and PTSD feel better during their treatment, and it will track their progress in real-time to see if more self-compassion leads to better outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10922720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of self-compassion in improving treatment outcomes for veterans suffering from both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By leveraging an ongoing clinical trial that examines the effects of oxytocin, the study aims to understand how self-compassion can enhance the effectiveness of integrated behavioral treatments. Participants will be assessed using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to capture real-time data on their self-compassion levels, alcohol consumption, and PTSD symptoms. The goal is to identify whether higher self-compassion correlates with better treatment results.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with co-occurring alcohol use disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have both AUD and PTSD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for veterans, enhancing their recovery from AUD and PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using self-compassion as a therapeutic tool, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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.