Using mobile technology to understand how emotions affect substance use in trauma-exposed adults

Leveraging Mobile Technology to Explicate the Role of Emotions in Substance Use Among Trauma-Exposed Community Adults

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10984577

This study is looking at how feelings can affect substance use in adults who have gone through trauma, using mobile technology to track emotions and behaviors in real-time, so we can better understand what triggers substance use and help those who might be at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10984577 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how emotions influence substance use among adults who have experienced trauma. By utilizing mobile technology, the study will collect real-time data on emotional states and substance use behaviors through both self-reports and physiological measurements. This approach aims to provide a deeper understanding of the emotional triggers that may lead to substance use, ultimately helping to identify individuals at risk and inform early intervention strategies. Participants will engage in experience sampling methodology, allowing for a comprehensive view of their daily emotional experiences and substance use patterns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have experienced trauma and may struggle with substance use or have PTSD.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced trauma or do not engage in substance use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and intervention strategies for substance use among trauma-exposed individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding emotional processes can significantly impact substance use outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.