Using technology to help women with depression and alcohol issues become more active
Official title: Testing the Efficacy of a Technology-Supported Lifestyle Physical Activity Intervention Among Women with Depression in Alcohol Treatment
Funded at Butler Hospital (Providence, Ri) · NIH-10889943 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using activity trackers and some friendly coaching can help women who struggle with alcohol use and depression to be more active, which might help them feel better and reduce their cravings for alcohol.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Butler Hospital (Providence, Ri) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $668,983 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA028186-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889943 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who are struggling with alcohol use disorder and experiencing symptoms of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or those who are not experiencing depression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a technology-supported lifestyle physical activity intervention can help women with alcohol use disorder (AUD) who also experience depression. The approach involves using activity monitors and brief counseling to encourage women to set goals and track their physical activity, which may serve as a healthier coping strategy for managing negative emotions and reducing alcohol cravings. By focusing on the unique challenges faced by women, such as stigma and childcare responsibilities, the study aims to create a flexible and accessible intervention that can be integrated into their daily lives.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women with effective tools to manage their depression and reduce their alcohol consumption, leading to improved overall health and well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using physical activity as a coping strategy for depression and alcohol use, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Butler Hospital (Providence, Ri)
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abrantes, Ana M — Butler Hospital (Providence, Ri)
- Study coordinator: Abrantes, Ana M
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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.