Self-reported alcohol consumption during participation in a text messaging-based online drinking moderation platform

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Digital Health
• Substance Use Research

Background:

• Many individuals with excessive alcohol consumption seek moderation but avoid formal treatment.
• Technology-assisted interventions offer accessible, flexible options for alcohol moderation.
• Empirical validation of commercially available, technology-assisted tools is often lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a technology-assisted web application for alcohol moderation.
• To assess changes in drinking patterns among individuals using a tailored text messaging program.
• To determine factors associated with greater benefit from the intervention.

Main Methods:

• A large dataset (n=46,411) of adults (age 21+) using the Sunnyside® web application was analyzed.
• Participants self-selected to use the app for alcohol moderation, setting goals and tracking drinks.
• Adaptive, personalized text messages and peer coach support were provided over 12 weeks.
• Generalized mixed-effect growth models analyzed changes in weekly and daily alcohol consumption.

Main Results:

• A 33% overall reduction in weekly alcohol consumption was observed over 12 weeks.
• The most significant decrease in drinking occurred in the initial weeks of use.
• Individuals with more severe alcohol use patterns and higher baseline concern showed greater relative benefit.

Conclusions:

• Daily drink tracking via the Sunnyside® web program facilitated changes in drinking patterns over 12 weeks.
• Findings support the use of adaptive, technology-assisted tools for alcohol moderation.
• This naturalistic study complements randomized clinical trial data, highlighting the utility of digital health interventions.