Recovery Research Study

Researchers at Loyola Marymount University are conducting a study in adults who are recently sober and seeking treatment for alcohol or substance use to better understand experiences with recovery.

Fast Facts

Recently Sober or Seeking Treatment for Alcohol or Substances

18+ Years Old

Compensation Provided

Conducted Remotely

Study Background

Researchers at Loyola Marymount University are conducting a study to understand the process and experience of recovery.

The purpose of this project is to understand the varied experiences of individuals in various stages of recovery from substance or alcohol use, including those leaving treatment or interested in self-help options. It is important to note that this research is NOT focused on your ‘success’ or ‘failure’ in recovery. Rather, we are interested in gaining a deeper insight into the diverse paths that characterize peoples’ struggles with substance or alcohol use. This information is private and cannot be shared with anyone outside of the research team under any circumstances.

Study Background

Researchers at Loyola Marymount University are conducting a study to understand the process and experience of recovery for people who are newly sober.

The purpose of this project is to understand the varied experiences of individuals in various stages of recovery from substance or alcohol use, including those leaving treatment or interested in self-help options. It is important to note that this research is NOT focused on your ‘success’ or ‘failure’ in recovery. Rather, we are interested in gaining a deeper insight into the diverse paths that characterize peoples’ struggles with substance or alcohol use. This information is private and cannot be shared with anyone outside of the research team under any circumstances.

Additional Information

Substance use disorders (SUDs), represent a major public health concern in the U.S. In the last year, it was reported that approximately 49 million individuals aged 12 and older had an SUD, with nearly 60% of these cases being alcohol use disorder (AUD). Despite SUD/AUD’s devastating impact, only ~20% of all individuals with addiction seek treatment, and only ~25% of those identified and recommended for treatment receive it. We aim to better understand recovery to help future patients reach their goals.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 18+
  • Be actively seeking treatment for substance use disorder (SUD)/alcohol use disorder (AUD), including those who are recently sober, those who are unable or unwilling to attend a residential or outpatient program, and those discharged from such programs in the two weeks.
  • Have access to a smartphone
  • Permanent resident of the United States
  • Comfortable reading and speaking in English
Participants who enroll in this virtual study will complete a baseline survey and be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Both groups are fully online and will receive resources to support recovery. One group will receive online resources immediately after baseline, while the other group will use an app to access resources. Participants will complete 3 follow-up surveys in a 6-month period.
Participants will receive a $50 e-gift card for completing the baseline and each subsequent survey (1 month, 3 months, and 6 months post-baseline for a total potential compensation of $200).

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.