Together in Recovery With Veterans Through Employment

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · May 19, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The "Together in Recovery With Veterans Through Employment" study aims to support Veterans who are struggling with opioid use disorder by helping them find and keep meaningful jobs. The researchers believe that having a job can improve not just employment status, but also help with sticking to necessary medications, addressing mental health needs, and feeling more connected to the community.

To participate in this study, Veterans need to be at least 19 years old, currently unemployed or working less than 20 hours a week, and interested in finding a competitive job. They must also have a diagnosis of opioid use disorder, which means they face challenges related to using these medications. However, individuals with certain severe mental health issues, like psychosis or dementia, or those who may not be able to finish the study due to other circumstances, won’t be eligible. Participants will receive support aimed at improving their job prospects, which could lead to better overall well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • age 19\* (\<19 year of age in the state of AL is defined minor)
• • DSM-5 Axis I diagnosis of OUD
• • currently unemployed or underemployed, defined as working \<20hrs/week in a meaningful competitive job for a wage, salary, or commission
• • expression of interest in competitive employment; and willing and able to give informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • current diagnosis of psychotic disorders since these Veterans already can receive IPS in usual care at TVAMC and BVAMC
• • diagnosis of dementia (evidenced in the medical record)
• • presence of current severe and unstable medical condition or terminal illness, that would contraindicate study participation or expose them to an undue risk
• • unlikely that participant can complete the study
• • e.g., expected deployment, incarceration, long-term hospitalization, or relocation from the vicinity
• • active suicidal or homicidal ideation making it unsafe for Veteran to be included
• • current participation in another vocational interventional trial