Understanding how social connections affect recovery from opioid use disorder after childbirth
Evaluating the Role of Social Connectedness in Recovery from Opioid Use Disorder during the Postpartum: A Supplement to Support Research Continuity
This study is looking at how having strong social connections can help new moms with opioid use disorder feel better and stay on track in their recovery during the months after giving birth, and it aims to find out the best ways to support them through this journey.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11125682 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social connectedness on recovery outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) during the postpartum period, specifically in the fourth trimester. The study aims to explore how strong social bonds can reduce cravings and lower the risk of relapse, as many individuals with OUD experience increased loneliness and isolation after childbirth. By evaluating different models of social connectedness, the research seeks to identify effective strategies to support recovery in this vulnerable population. Participants will be followed for up to one year to assess the long-term effects of social support on their recovery journey.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postpartum individuals who have a history of opioid use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are not postpartum or do not have a history of opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery outcomes for postpartum individuals with opioid use disorder by highlighting the importance of social support.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social connectedness can positively influence recovery outcomes in various populations, suggesting that this approach may be effective for postpartum individuals with opioid use disorder as well.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen, Alicia M — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Allen, Alicia M
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.