Internet-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Adults with Both Mental Illness and Problematic Alcohol Use

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating internet-based cognitive behavior therapy ICBT to treat adults with co-occurring problematic alcohol use and mild to moderate symptoms of mental illness, such as depression, anxiety, stress, or sleep disturbances. The study aims to find out if the ICBT program can reduce self-reported mental health suffering and alcohol intake compared to a control group receiving weekly attention from the research team. Participants will receive either 10 weeks of individually tailored, therapist-supported ICBT modules delivered on their computer or be placed in a wait-list control group that receives weekly attention but no immediate treatment. After the initial 10 weeks and post-treatment assessments, the control group will also have the opportunity to complete the same ICBT program. Therapists provide both scheduled weekly and on-demand support during weekdays. During the study, participants will complete forms rating their mental health and alcohol use at the start, weekly during treatment, at the end of treatment, and at 6 and 12 months follow-up via online surveys. Researchers will measure changes in depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms using the DASS-21 scale and track alcohol intake through self-reports. Additional assessments will include insomnia symptoms, disability, craving, and other mental health and alcohol-related measures. The total study duration includes treatment and follow-up over 12 months after treatment ends.

Co-occurence of Mental Illness and Problematic Alcohol Use: an Internet-based Cognitive Behavior Therapy Intervention