A Feasibility Study of Delivery of the 5-Step Method Intervention for Family Members of Persons With Substance Use Disorder in the United States

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the feasibility of introducing a behavioral intervention called the 5-Step Method for family members affected by a relative's misuse of drugs and/or alcohol in the United States. This randomized control trial will include 36 participants experiencing stress related to their relative's substance misuse for at least six months. The study aims to assess whether the 5-Step Method can be effectively introduced in the U.S. and to observe preliminary participant responses through baseline and follow-up surveys. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. Those in the intervention group will receive a self-help handbook of the 5-Step Method delivered by mail, along with emails every two weeks encouraging continued use over a 12-week period. The control group will not receive the handbook from the research team but may seek out other available support programs independently. Recruitment will be ongoing until the study reaches 36 participants. During the study, participants will complete baseline and follow-up surveys to measure stress, coping, strain, and social support. Researchers will track adherence to the intervention, acceptability, ease of use, and any adverse events up to one year after completing the intervention. Data on recruitment, retention, and other process rates will also be collected. Participants need internet access and a device for completing surveys and receiving emails. Total participation lasts approximately 12 weeks.

Feasibility of the 5-Step Method in the U.S.