Connecting Veterans with English Learners to Improve Well-Being
Enhancing Purpose and Well-Being Through a Volunteering Experience Connecting Veterans With English Language Learners
This study is testing whether having Veterans volunteer to help English learners practice speaking can improve the Veterans' well-being and social connections.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan) |
| Trial ID | NCT06324383 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to engage Veterans suffering from depression, anxiety, and PTSD by having them volunteer to help English language learners improve their speaking skills through structured videoconferencing conversations. The study will involve 40 pairs of Veterans and English language learners, with tailored training and program materials provided to both groups. Participants will undergo orientation and supervised sessions, and data will be collected through surveys and interviews to assess the impact of the intervention on social engagement and volunteerism among Veterans.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Veterans aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or PTSD and can participate in videoconferencing.
Not a fit: Patients with schizophrenia, dementia, significant sensory impairments, or current substance abuse issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this initiative could enhance the sense of purpose and reduce feelings of isolation among Veterans while simultaneously aiding English language learners in improving their language skills.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown success in similar approaches, indicating potential for positive outcomes in this intervention.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Veteran coach participant Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years of age or older * fluent English speakers * diagnosis of depression, anxiety, or PTSD in their outpatient record in the last 12 months. * be able to participate in a videoconference via a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer in their home using a widely-accessible, no cost videoconferencing platform. Exclusion Criteria: * schizophrenia * dementia * traumatic brain injury that significantly impedes ability to participate in sessions * significant sensory impairment * current alcohol or drug abuse/dependence that would affect their ability to participate in the study English Language Learner participant -- Inclusion Criteria: * 18+ years of age * be able to participate in a videoconference via a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer in their home or referring organization using a widely-accessible, no cost videoconferencing platform * basic ability to understand and speak English
Where this trial is running
Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Clinical Management Research (CCMR), North Campus Research Complex — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: John D Piette, PhD — University of Michigan
- Study coordinator: Sarah H Yon, MPH
- Email: shlim@umich.edu
- Phone: 734-222-7671
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.