Expressive writing intervention for sexual minority veterans

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This research examines the feasibility and effectiveness of a brief, three-session expressive writing intervention aimed at reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms among sexual minority veterans. The intervention focuses on addressing distress related to sexual minority stressors, such as discrimination and stigma. Participants will engage in structured writing exercises to explore their thoughts and emotions related to these stressors. The study aims to provide a scalable and accessible mental health intervention tailored to the unique needs of sexual minority veterans.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Participants will be Veterans who:

* identify as a sexual minority (i.e., identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer, or another identity other than heterosexual)
* endorse clinically significant depressive or anxiety symptoms (score above 10 on the PHQ-9 or GAD-7)
* report a history of sexuality-based minority stressor exposure that is contributing to distress on phone screening
* be stable on psychotropic medication for at least 4 weeks if on a psychotropic medication

Exclusion Criteria:

The exclusion criteria for Veterans in this study are:

* clear and current suicidal plan and/or intent (assessed via the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale)
* current presentation of unstable mania and/or psychosis (assessed via the Structured Interview for DSM-5)
* current substance use disorder, severe (assessed via the Structured Interview for DSM-5)
* significant cognitive impairment, including evidence of moderate or severe traumatic brain injury, determined by an inability to comprehend baseline screening questionnaires

Where it's running

• VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Kelly L Harper, PhD — VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA
• Study coordinator: Kelly L Harper, PhD
• Email: kelly.harper@va.gov
• Phone: (857) 364-4417

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.