Using work activities to help Veterans with substance use disorders improve their recovery
Augmenting early phase substance use treatment with therapeutic work activity to improve clinical outcomes: a new indication for an old intervention
This study is looking at whether adding work-related activities to the usual treatment helps Veterans with substance use disorders feel better and stay sober longer, by comparing two groups—one getting standard care and the other doing work therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Connecticut Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10938041 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how incorporating therapeutic work activities can enhance treatment outcomes for Veterans with substance use disorders (SUD). By comparing two groups of Veterans—one receiving standard treatment and the other participating in work-related therapy—the study aims to assess the effectiveness of this approach in reducing relapse rates and improving overall quality of life. The methodology includes a randomized controlled trial design, where participants are monitored over time to evaluate their progress and recovery. The goal is to determine if work activities can provide additional benefits beyond traditional treatment methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans diagnosed with a substance use disorder who are seeking treatment and are open to participating in therapeutic work activities.
Not a fit: Patients who are not Veterans or those who do not have a substance use disorder may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery rates and quality of life for Veterans struggling with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising outcomes with similar therapeutic approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
West Haven, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System — West Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fiszdon, Joanna M. — VA Connecticut Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Fiszdon, Joanna M.
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 below.