Wernersville

Researchers are evaluating whether the Safe and Sound Protocol SSP app can help adults who have both substance use disorders and trauma symptoms. This study aims to see if adding SSP to usual treatment improves emotional regulation and reduces symptoms related to posttraumatic stress, anxiety, and autonomic nervous system arousal. The SSP is based on the Polyvagal Theory and has been used in other populations to reduce anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms, but this is the first study focusing on those with co-occurring substance use and trauma. Participants will be randomly assigned to use either the active SSP or a sham version of the SSP app, both delivered through a mobile device or tablet. They will engage with the app for between three to five hours over seven days. The active SSP uses filtered music designed to stimulate the vagus nerve and promote calming, while the sham version uses unfiltered music. Data will be collected before and after this one-week period to measure changes in symptoms. Throughout the study, participants will complete various questionnaires assessing posttraumatic stress symptoms, anxiety, autonomic responses, mood, and mindfulness on day 1 and day 8. The study involves 129 participants receiving residential treatment and trauma programming. Safety and adherence will be monitored, and the main outcomes focus on symptom changes from before to after the intervention period.