Using expressive writing to help adults with spinal cord injuries cope with grief
Official title: The Impact of Expressive Emotional Writing on Facilitating Grief Resolution in Adults With Spinal Cord Injury
Run by University of Alabama at Birmingham · NCT06147258 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a 10-week online writing program can help adults with spinal cord injuries cope with their grief and improve their emotional well-being.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Birmingham, Alabama) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 3, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 24, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06147258 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old with a diagnosis of spinal cord injury and limb weakness who can access the internet.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe cognitive impairments or those currently undergoing psychotherapy may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the therapeutic benefits of a 10-week online coach-guided expressive emotional writing program for adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Participants will engage in expressive writing to explore and express their feelings related to the grief of losing physical capacity and life goals. The study employs a randomized controlled trial design to assess improvements in psychosocial health, including grief intensity and social participation, using validated assessments. The program is designed for individuals who can access the internet and communicate effectively in English.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the psychosocial health and grief resolution of adults living with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results with expressive writing interventions, suggesting potential benefits for similar approaches.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: (1) diagnosis (with evidence) of SCI (traumatic or non-traumatic) with limb weakness; (2) aged \> 18 years; (3) access to the internet and a computer or to a smartphone that can perform videoconferencing, (4) sufficient English language and cognitive proficiency to complete self-report study questionnaires and understand program content in English, and able to communicate verbally or through writing. \- Exclusion Criteria: (1) severe cognitive impairments that prevent online learning and completion of the evaluation; (2) suicidal intent requiring emergency care; (3) consistent psychotherapy within the last 6 months; (4) current or planned participation in psychological therapy or a clinical trial during the study period that could affect the outcomes of the study; or (5) congenital SCI (e.g., spinal bifida) \-
Where it's running
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hon Yuen, PhD — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Hon Yuen, PhD
- Email: yuen@uab.edu
- Phone: 205-934-6301
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.