Understanding how stress affects alcohol use in Veterans
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application for Howard Becker, PhD
Funded at Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · NIH-11105785 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stress affects drinking habits in Veterans with alcohol use disorder, hoping to find better ways to help them manage both issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006299-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105785 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who experience both alcohol use disorder and stress-related disorders such as PTSD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use disorder or stress-related disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between stress and alcohol use disorder (AUD), particularly in Veterans who often experience both conditions. It aims to uncover the neural mechanisms and brain circuits that contribute to excessive drinking triggered by stress. By studying these interactions, the research seeks to develop more effective treatment strategies for individuals suffering from AUD and related stress disorders. The findings could lead to improved interventions for Veterans facing these challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment options for Veterans struggling with alcohol use disorder and stress-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between stress and alcohol use, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
-
Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Becker, Howard C. — Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Becker, Howard C.
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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.