Improving recovery for veterans with alcohol use disorder through training techniques
Official title: Enhancing treatment outcomes among veterans with alcohol use disorder: Clinical and neural markers of adjunctive approach-avoidance training
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-10938011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new computer program designed to help veterans with alcohol use disorder resist the urge to drink, making it easier for them to stay on track with their recovery and get back to their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003793-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who are seeking treatment and may have additional health challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not veterans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on helping veterans with alcohol use disorder (AUD) by developing a treatment that addresses the strong desire to consume alcohol, which often leads to relapse. The approach involves a computer-based program called Approach Avoidance Training (AAT) that aims to change how veterans respond to alcohol cues, making it easier for them to resist drinking. By integrating this training with standard care, the study seeks to enhance recovery outcomes and support veterans in resuming their daily lives and responsibilities. The research will also explore the cognitive and brain changes that occur as a result of this training.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for veterans struggling with alcohol use disorder, reducing relapse rates and improving overall recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise for similar approaches in treating alcohol use disorder, indicating that this method may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spadoni Townsend, Andrea — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Spadoni Townsend, Andrea
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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.