Study protocol for a sequential multiple assignment randomized trial to reduce risky drinking among service members...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Military Health

Background:

• Military spouses face significant mental health challenges, especially when partnered with heavy-drinking service members.
• Concerned partners (CPs) can motivate service members (SMs) to seek care, but may need support to manage their own drinking and communication.
• Existing interventions may not adequately address the unique needs of CPs in supporting SMs' treatment engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and test an adaptive web-based intervention (Partners Connect) for CPs.
• To decrease CP drinking and improve relationship quality.
• To increase SM help-seeking for substance use or mental health concerns.

Main Methods:

• A two-stage Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) design.
• Recruitment of 408 CPs aged 18+ via social media, followed for six months.
• Stage one: Randomization to Partners Connect or Gottman Institute resources. Stage two re-randomizes non-responders to different intervention components (e.g., CRAFT).

Main Results:

• The study is registered (NCT05619185) and is currently in the trial phase.
• Data collection and analysis are ongoing to evaluate intervention effectiveness.
• Preliminary findings on intervention uptake and engagement will be reported upon completion.

Conclusions:

• Intervening with CPs can effectively equip them to engage SMs in treatment.
• This approach aims to enhance treatment accessibility and appeal for individuals who might not otherwise seek care.
• The adaptive intervention model holds promise for improving mental health and reducing substance use in military families.