Stress Inoculation Training for Stress
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new training method called Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) to improve stress tolerance, psychological health, resilience, and job performance for Navy service members. Participants will either receive SIT training alongside their regular Firefighting Training or just the regular training for comparison. It is designed for active duty or reserve U.S. Navy members who speak English and have access to a smartphone or computer. Participants must be willing to complete performance tests and assessments throughout the study. This trial is not suitable for those with certain mental health issues or severe substance abuse problems. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance training methods for Navy service members.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for military training?
Research shows that Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) is generally easy for people to handle. This therapy teaches skills to help manage stress. For example, studies have found that SIT can lower anxiety and boost performance in various groups, including those with PTSD or high-stress jobs.
Regarding safety, these studies have not identified any major negative effects from SIT. As a psychological training method rather than a medication, it doesn't carry the same risk of side effects that drugs might. This makes it a safe choice for those seeking to better manage stress and anxiety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) for stress because it offers a proactive approach to managing stress, unlike traditional methods that often focus on treatment after stress symptoms appear. SIT combines skills training and real-life simulations to help individuals build resilience and cope with stress before it becomes overwhelming. This method is particularly unique because it integrates Damage Control Assessment & Firefighting (DCA-FF) exercises, providing hands-on experience that reinforces stress management techniques in high-pressure situations. By focusing on prevention and resilience-building, SIT has the potential to enhance overall mental well-being more effectively than conventional stress management practices.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for stress?
Research has shown that Stress Inoculation Training (SIT), which participants in this trial may receive, can greatly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It teaches skills to help manage these feelings better. Studies have found that SIT improves mental health and boosts performance by lowering anxiety about performing tasks. It also helps control emotional reactions and increases optimism. These benefits suggest that SIT can effectively enhance the ability to handle stress and recover, which is crucial for challenging environments like Navy training. Another treatment option in this trial is Damage Control Assessment & Firefighting (DCA-FF), which serves as an active comparator.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sarah Jackson, MFT, PhD
Principal Investigator
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for US Navy service members who are fluent in English, can give informed consent, have access to a smartphone or computer, and agree to undergo testing throughout the study. They must be available for the entire study duration but with flexibility for military demands.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training Augmentation
Participants undergo augmented Navy military training with the SIT Core Protocol
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for stress tolerance, psychological health, resilience, and occupational performance
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- DCA-FF
- SIT
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Lead Sponsor
Department of Defense / Congressionally Mandated Research Program (CDMRP)
Collaborator