Helping young Black men cope with stress and substance use through mindfulness.
Project BrEAtHe (Brothers, Reclaiming, Emotional, Awareness, Tranquility, Healing & Ex-istence): Disrupting Racism-related Stress, Trauma, & Problematic Substance Use in Young Adult Black Men
This study is looking to help young Black men in tough neighborhoods manage stress and substance use by teaching them mindfulness techniques like meditation and breathing exercises that are specially designed for their experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10673993 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the unique stressors faced by young adult Black men, particularly those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods. It aims to adapt mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques to help participants manage stress, trauma, and problematic substance use, such as alcohol and marijuana. The approach includes meditation and breathing exercises designed to improve emotional regulation and reduce maladaptive responses to stress. By culturally tailoring these interventions, the research seeks to enhance their effectiveness and acceptance among the target population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adult Black men aged 18-29 who experience stress and substance use issues, particularly those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as Black men or those outside the age range of 18-29 may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide young Black men with effective tools to manage stress and reduce substance use, leading to improved mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress and substance use, although this specific adaptation for young Black men is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Farmington, United States
- University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt — Farmington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Powell, Wizdom a — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Powell, Wizdom a
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.