Support Program for Adults in Agricultural Areas Facing Loneliness Comparing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Health Education via Telehealth

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying loneliness and social isolation among adults living in agricultural areas. This trial compares two types of therapist-led sessions cognitive-behavioral therapy CBT aimed at reducing feelings of loneliness and substance use, and health education focused on healthy lifestyle information. The purpose is to understand how these interventions impact loneliness and related mental health outcomes over time. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the CBT group or the health education group. Each group receives six weekly telehealth sessions lasting about 40 to 60 minutes. During the study, participants can choose to complete short daily assessments three times a day for seven weeks using a smartphone app to track their experiences in real time. Throughout the trial, researchers will measure changes in loneliness, anxiety, depression, and social interactions at the start, mid-treatment, after treatment, and one month later. Participants must have internet access and will be monitored for safety. The study is led by Ohio State University and will begin in July 2025, with results followed for up to six months after baseline.

Fostering Agricultural Relationships and Meaning - Thriving on Kinship