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:
• • Emergency department admission for alcohol- or suicide-related reason
• • aged 18-29
• • speak, read, and understand English
• • binge drinking and alcohol use problems in the past month
• • active suicidal ideation in the past month
• • owning and having access to a personal smartphone
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • severe cognitive delay, active psychosis, or heavy intoxication that precludes research participation
• • at imminent safety risk and need to be on a 1:1 observation, in which case research may interfere with their clinical care in the emergency department
• • under arrest or a prisoner/inmate
• • not interested or are unwilling to use an avatar-guided digital intervention