Enhancing future thinking in individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder

Enhancing Prospective Thinking in Early Recovery

Not applicable Interventional Indiana University · NCT06283446

This study is testing if stronger mental exercises about the future can help people recovering from alcohol use disorder make better decisions and feel more motivated to seek treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment98 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorIndiana University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Trial IDNCT06283446 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of high-intensity episodic future-thinking (EFT) cues on individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder. Participants will be divided into two groups, receiving either high-intensity or low-intensity cues, to assess differences in delayed reward preference, treatment-seeking interest, and brain responses related to prospective thinking. The study will also explore the relationship between brain connectivity and decision-making behaviors. By comparing the outcomes of both groups, researchers hope to uncover the potential benefits of high-intensity cues in recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18-60 who have been abstinent from alcohol for 30 days to 1 year and are committed to their recovery.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable medical or psychiatric conditions, habitual substance use, or those outside the specified age range may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery strategies for individuals with alcohol use disorder by improving their ability to plan for the future.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using high-intensity EFT cues is novel, similar studies exploring future thinking in addiction recovery have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Abstinence between 30 days ≤ 1 year
* Verbal endorsement of commitment to recovery
* English comprehension

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unstable medical disorders
* Outside the age range of 18-60
* Habitual substance or alcohol use
* Smell/taste disorders
* Unstable psychiatric conditions

Where this trial is running

Indianapolis, Indiana

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Alcohol Use Disorder
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.