Open Pilot Trial Evaluating an Avatar-Guided Intervention for Emerging Adults With Alcohol Use Problems and Suicide Risk

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS, WORCESTER · Sep 11, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is testing a new mobile health program designed to help young adults aged 18 to 29 who are dealing with problems related to binge drinking and thoughts of suicide. The program uses an avatar, which is a digital figure that guides users through the intervention. Researchers want to see how easy it is to use this new program and how well it works for people who come to the emergency department for issues related to alcohol or suicidal thoughts.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be between 18 and 29 years old, have experienced binge drinking and suicidal thoughts in the past month, and be able to speak, read, and understand English. They also need to own a smartphone. However, people with severe mental health issues, those who are currently very intoxicated, or those who are in immediate danger may not be eligible. If someone joins the trial, they can expect to use the avatar-guided program while receiving support for their challenges. This research aims to find better ways to help young adults in crisis.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Between 18-29 years old
• • Past month binge drinking OR score of 6 or greater on the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test
• • Past month active suicidal ideation per clinical chart and confirmed via self-report
• • Have a personal smartphone device with internet access
• • Speak, read, and understand English
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Severe cognitive delay, active psychosis, or heavy intoxication that would interfere with understanding the study
• • Imminent safety risk requiring a 1:1 observation
• • In police custody during emergency department visit
• • Unwilling or not interested in using an avatar-directed intervention in addition to their usual emergency department care