Understanding how social connections affect substance use and mental health
Official title: Characterizing the neural mechanisms of social connection
Funded at Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark · NIH-11012395 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how feeling lonely affects mental health and substance use, and it’s for anyone dealing with substance dependence; it aims to understand how having strong social connections can help people cope better and make healthier choices.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $498,264 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA053311-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012395 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing substance dependence and social isolation, particularly those who may benefit from enhanced social support.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with substance use or who have strong social support networks may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social isolation on mental health and substance use, focusing on how perceived social connections can mitigate negative outcomes. It aims to explore the neurobiological mechanisms that underlie the formation of social bonds and how these bonds can influence coping strategies for individuals struggling with substance dependence. By integrating social context into the understanding of substance abuse, the research seeks to identify ways to foster healthy social interactions that may reduce maladaptive behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions that help individuals form healthier social connections, potentially reducing substance use and improving mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that social interactions can positively influence substance use behaviors, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Delgado, Mauricio R. — Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
- Study coordinator: Delgado, Mauricio R.
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.