Understanding and Treating Substance Use Disorder and Comorbid Conditions in Veterans' Real-Life Settings

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Aug 29, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding and treating substance use disorder (SUD) among Veterans. The researchers aim to help patients identify what triggers their substance use and how to manage those triggers better. They will create personalized models for each participant that link their substance use, urges, and other related symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. By analyzing these models together, the study hopes to find common causes of substance use and recovery in Veterans. Participants will also receive feedback on their personal models to see if this helps improve their substance use and related symptoms.

To be eligible for the study, participants need to be Veterans who currently show signs of substance use disorder, as determined by specific screening tests. They should have used substances in the past month and have access to a smartphone or tablet for completing surveys. However, those who are currently in inpatient treatment or under the influence of drugs or alcohol when they sign up cannot participate. The study is not yet recruiting participants, but once it begins, those who join can expect to learn more about their triggers and receive tailored feedback that may help them in their recovery journey.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Inclusion criteria for this study are intended to include most Veterans with SUD
• * inclusion criteria are current probable SUD as indicated by:
• • a clinical score on the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) or drug use disorders identification test (DUDIT)
• • past-month substance use
• • a reliable access to a smartphone, tablet, or other device with capability of accessing and completing surveys throughout the day
• • this will exclude those who are currently completing inpatient treatment
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • exclusion criteria are being under the influence of a judgment-impairing substance at the time of consent (e.g., cannabis, alcohol, illicit opioids)
• • participants will be invited to return another day
• • being legally compelled to complete treatment
• • or being under civil commitment
• • due to lack of ability to give autonomous consent in these situations