Wellness, Alcohol, Vitals, and Emotions

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO · May 13, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The clinical trial titled "Wellness, Alcohol, Vitals, and Emotions" is looking at how mindfulness-based techniques can help people manage their drinking habits over time. The study will use wearable heart rate sensors to see how mindfulness practices can change how people regulate their emotions and drinking behavior. Participants will be asked to answer questions about their mood and drinking three times a day during an 8-week treatment program, which includes weekly group meetings. The trial aims to understand if changes in heart rate, which reflects stress and emotional regulation, can influence drinking and cravings in daily life.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be 18 years or older and have been diagnosed with moderate to severe alcohol use disorder in the past three months. They should also be willing to attend group meetings, wear the heart rate sensor for the duration of the program, and have internet access to complete assessments. It’s important to note that individuals with severe mental health issues or certain medical conditions may not be able to participate. After the program ends, participants will return the sensors and continue to provide information about their mood and drinking behaviors for up to six months. This trial is not yet recruiting, but it offers a unique opportunity for those looking to improve their relationship with alcohol through mindfulness practices.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. 18 years of age or older
• • 2. Meet criteria for a moderate to severe alcohol use disorder within the previous 3-months.
• • 3. Able to attend group meetings at the time listed on the recruitment materials.
• • 4. Willing to wear a sensor for the 8-week intervention period and return the sensor after the immediate follow-up.
• • 5. Have a phone/tablet/computer with internet access.
• • 6. Be able to comprehend and consent to study requirements in English.
• • 7. Have access to a valid U.S. mailing address for receiving the HRV sensors and reside in the United States.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Current symptoms of psychosis or mania.
• • 2. Have a substance use disorder requiring a higher level of care than outpatient treatment (e.g., severe alcohol use disorder requiring inpatient detoxification).
• • 3. Have a history of pulmonary or cardiovascular disease that interferes with sensor data collection and HRV metrics (i.e., ectopic beats, arrythmia, congenital heart disease).