Early Identification and Electronic Mini-Intervention for Alcohol and Substance Use in Adolescents Aged 14 to 19 at Kuopio University Hospital

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an electronic form of the ASSIST mini-intervention for alcohol and substance use among adolescent psychiatric outpatients aged 14 to 20 years. The study compares this intervention with the usual adolescent psychiatric care, which typically includes psychotherapy, medications, or both. The goal is to recognize and provide early intervention for alcohol and substance abuse during adolescence, addressing various related psychiatric conditions. Participants are randomized into two groups one receiving standard adolescent psychiatric care, including psychotherapy andor psychotropic drug treatment, and the other receiving the same usual care plus the e-form of the ASSIST mini-intervention for substance and alcohol use. This behavioral intervention is delivered electronically alongside routine treatments. Upon admission, participants undergo a semi-structured diagnostic interview and complete questionnaires. They are then re-evaluated six months later using the same interview and assessments. Researchers measure changes in alcohol, tobacco, and substance consumption as the primary outcome, while also assessing depression and anxiety scores. The study involves monitoring participants over a six-month follow-up period to observe these outcomes.

Recognition and Early Intervention for Alcohol and Substance Abuse in Adolescence in Adolescent