Fort Defiance

Researchers are evaluating the Hastiin Bidziil Strong Man Intervention, a secondary prevention program aimed at reducing substance use among Native American Indian men aged 18 years and older. This study is part of the CIRCLE Center of Excellence, which works with Indigenous communities to address drug-related health issues. The trial is a randomized controlled study designed to measure the programs effectiveness in this population. The study compares two groups one receiving the Hastiin Bidziil intervention, which is a culturally and gender-adapted version of the Common Elements Treatment Approach CETA and a control group attending five sessions on basic vehicle maintenance selected by the Community Research Council. The vehicle maintenance sessions include practical skills like changing tires and checking fluid levels. The adaptation phase for the intervention happens before the randomized trial begins. Participants will be assessed for substance use using the Time Line Follow-back method at 8 months after starting the program. During the study, men will attend intervention or control sessions and complete substance use assessments. The research team will monitor how many days participants use substances to evaluate the impact of the program. The study runs through June 2028, and participation involves regular engagement with study activities and follow-up assessments.