NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using video and text messages to help sexual violence survivors avoid PTSD and opioid misuse

Official title: "Testing a Video and Text Messaging Intervention to reduce PTSD and Opioid Misuse Among Sexual Violence Survivors"

Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10932996 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a short video and text message program to help people who have experienced sexual assault in the emergency room, aiming to support them and reduce the chances of developing PTSD or misusing opioids.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project startSeptember 30, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$367,112
NIH project number5R61DA059897-02
Project IDNIH-10932996 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are women who have recently experienced sexual assault and are seeking medical care in an emergency department.

Less likely to help

Patients who have not experienced sexual violence or those who are not seeking care in an emergency department may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research aims to create and test a brief video and text messaging intervention for sexual assault survivors who visit the emergency department. The intervention is designed to help prevent the development or worsening of PTSD and opioid misuse, which are common issues faced by these individuals. By delivering this intervention during emergency visits, the project seeks to provide timely support and resources to those in crisis. The approach builds on previous successful trials that showed positive outcomes in reducing mental health issues and substance use among survivors.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of PTSD and opioid misuse among sexual violence survivors.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success with similar interventions in reducing PTSD and substance use among sexual assault survivors, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Madison, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Walsh, Katie L — University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Study coordinator: Walsh, Katie L

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.