Support for stressed veterans and service members through text messages

COVE (Caring for Vets and Service Members)

NA · University of Washington · NCT06136234

This study tests if sending supportive text messages can help veterans and service members who are feeling stressed or upset.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment510 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Washington (other)
Locations1 site (Seattle, Washington)
Trial IDNCT06136234 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Caring Contacts, which involves sending supportive text messages, for veterans and service members experiencing stress or distress. The study will compare the outcomes of participants receiving Caring Contacts alongside best available resources to those receiving only the best available resources. Researchers will also utilize ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to understand the timing and impact of these contacts on suicidal ideation and emotional distress. The trial seeks to identify mechanisms of action and gather insights into veterans' experiences with the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include US veterans or service members aged 18 and older who are experiencing stress or distress.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to consent due to cognitive limitations or insufficient English may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce distress and suicidal thoughts among veterans and service members.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies on Caring Contacts have shown promise in reducing suicidal ideation among at-risk populations, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* US service member or veteran
* 18 years or older
* Lives in the United States
* Stressed (recent separation from or in transition out of the military, unemployment, financial strain, unhoused, or suicide loss, etc.) or distressed (isolation, depression, substance use, loneliness, defeat, hopelessness, psychological pain, or suicidal ideation, etc.)
* Willingness to be contacted periodically by text message and either email or postal mail

Exclusion Criteria:

- Unable to consent due to inability to understand the consent form due to cognitive limitations or insufficient English (as determined by inability to pass the consent quiz items)

Where this trial is running

Seattle, Washington

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stress, Distress, Emotional, suicidal ideation, suicide cognitions

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.