CBT vs. Supportive Texts for PTSD & Hazardous Drinking (Project Better Study 2)

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · Oct 16, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the Project Better Study 2, is looking to help people who are dealing with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and are also drinking alcohol in a risky way. The study will compare two types of text message programs: one will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, which are designed to help change negative thinking patterns, while the other will offer supportive messages. The goal is to see which method is more effective in reducing symptoms for participants.

To be eligible for the study, participants must be at least 18 years old, live in Washington State, and speak English. They should have experienced a traumatic event at least a month ago and currently show significant PTSD symptoms, as well as engage in hazardous drinking behaviors. Participants will need to have a working cell phone and commit to receiving weekly text messages for four weeks. If you or someone you know fits these criteria, this study could provide valuable support and insights into managing PTSD and alcohol use.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. 18+ years of age
• • 2. Currently resides in WA State
• • 3. Fluent in English
• • 4. Reports at least one DSM-5 traumatic event that occurred 1+ months ago
• • 5. Current PTSD severity of 33+ on the PCL-5
• • 6. Current hazardous alcohol use (2+ heavy episodic drinking occasions \[4+ drinks on one occasion for women, 5+ drinks on one occasion for men\] in past month, 1+ negative consequences related to alcohol use)
• • 7. Owns a functioning cellular phone
• • 8. Is willing to receive weekly study text messages for 4 consecutive weeks
• • 9. Is willing to provide contact information including phone number (for text messages and reminders), email (reminders), and mailing address (payment)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Previous participation in Project BETTER study 1 (NCT05372042)
• • 2. Participation in Project COPE+ (IRB# STUDY00022875) (a small-scaled text-based message study that aims to increase positive mood and wellbeing for adults with posttraumatic stress symptoms and hazardous drinking)