Social Media Messaging for Alcohol Use Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test social media messages as a way to help young adults reduce risky behaviors, such as heavy drinking. Participants will either receive health coaching through a social media intervention or access links to educational websites about alcohol. The trial seeks individuals in the U.S. who frequently use Snapchat, have recently engaged in high-intensity drinking, and can interact with social media ads.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could shape future health interventions.
What prior data suggests that this social media intervention is safe for young adults?
Research shows that social media can help reduce risky drinking habits. Studies have found that health coaching through social media leads to less drinking and fewer alcohol-related issues. For instance, one study discovered that supporting people through instant messaging for three months decreased their alcohol consumption.
Regarding safety, social media interventions are generally well-received. They don't involve medication or medical procedures. Instead, they provide support and information through digital platforms, which most people find easy to use and non-intrusive.
Overall, evidence suggests that social media health coaching is safe and can help reduce risky drinking behaviors.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the social media messaging treatment for alcohol use disorder because it offers a novel way to engage patients through platforms they already use daily. Unlike traditional treatments such as counseling or medication, this approach provides health coaching via social media, making support more accessible and less stigmatizing. This method could potentially reach a wider audience, offering personalized guidance and encouragement in real-time, which might enhance motivation and adherence to treatment.
What evidence suggests that social media intervention is effective for alcohol use disorder?
Research has shown that social media can help people reduce alcohol consumption. One study found that individuals who received supportive messages for three months drank less. Another study discovered that digital tools on social media effectively reduced drinking and its harmful effects. In this trial, participants in the social media messaging arm will receive health coaching via social media for 8 weeks. Meanwhile, the control group will access an educational website about alcohol and related resources. These findings suggest that social media can be a promising tool for helping people with alcohol use disorder.12356
Who Is on the Research Team?
Erin E Bonar, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Michigan
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young adults who may be engaging in risky drinking behaviors. The study aims to find effective ways to deliver wellness and substance use prevention messages.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive health coaching via social media for 8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in alcohol use, anxiety, and depression symptoms
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Social Media Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Michigan
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Collaborator