Digital Human-Based Brief Interventions for Harmful Alcohol Use: The PAHOLA Project

Launched by CENTRE FOR ADDICTION AND MENTAL HEALTH · Jun 7, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The PAHOLA Project is a clinical trial aimed at helping people in Canada who struggle with harmful alcohol use but may not have access to traditional treatment. The goal is to create a digital health worker named PAHOLA that can provide support and guidance using techniques such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy. This technology aims to reach individuals who might avoid seeking help due to concerns like privacy, stigma, or simply not knowing where to turn for support.

To participate in the trial, you need to be at least 18 years old and currently drink alcohol, scoring between 7 and 23 on a specific screening test for alcohol use disorders. If you are taking medication for alcohol use, that’s okay, as long as your dosage has been stable for the past eight weeks. Participants will need a computer with internet access, a camera, and a microphone to interact with PAHOLA. Throughout the study, you can expect to receive personalized support to help reduce your alcohol use, with the hope that this innovative approach can improve health and well-being for many who have not received help before.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Current drinkers 18 years of age and older who score 7 to 23 on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test
• • 2. Use of medication to treat harmful alcohol use will be allowed provided that the dose has been stable for 8 weeks
• • 3. Availability of a computer with a connection to the internet and a camera and microphone
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. A history of drug use disorders (other than alcohol) in the last two years (except tobacco use disorder)
• • 2. Dose changes of concomitant medications will not be permitted during the study period
• • 3. Pregnant or lactating women, and women of childbearing potential who are not using medically accepted forms of contraception, or women who are planning on becoming pregnant during the study time frame
• • 4. People who are currently reciving psychological treatment for alcohol use disorders