Alcohol Related Risk Reduction in Rural Veterans

This study will investigate whether a brief alcohol harm reduction intervention for Veteran primary care patients who consume alcohol at levels that exceed dietary guidelines but who do not necessarily exhibit evidence of alcohol use and dependence is feasible based on enrollment and retention rates, and treatment satisfaction. In addition, we will investigate whether there is preliminary evidence for efficacy of the intervention based on changes in alcohol consumption over time.

Following enrollment in the study, participants will be scheduled for an initial phone session. Veterans will then receive an alcohol risk reduction intervention that is based on VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guidelines and strategies recommended by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). The intervention will be delivered via telephone. After an introduction and overview of the intervention, Veterans will be provided with personalized feedback regarding potential health risks associated with their alcohol use and how alcohol use may interact with their health conditions and medications. Following a motivational enhancement exercise, Veterans are advised to reduce alcohol intake to within recommended limits and are supported in identifying a drinking goal. Consistent with principles of harm reduction, the approach starts by "meeting the Veteran where they are" and establishing a collaborative and empowering relationship that leverages the individual's skills. Rather than requiring participants to work toward abstinence, Veterans select their own treatment goals. Evidence-based strategies for achieving the goal are discussed (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, identifying and avoiding triggers, dealing with urges, pacing and spacing drinks, managing high risk situations, finding alternatives to alcohol, developing refusal skills, and enlisting social support). Educational materials addressing methods for cutting down are also provided, along with information about other available resources to support their efforts. Progress is monitored at a subsequent contact. Small, incremental gains are reinforced and recognized as steps in the right direction. Problem solving is used to address barriers to change, and revised goals are discussed as appropriate.

Participants will complete baseline questionnaires as well as a post-treatment evaluations (at approximately three months) and follow-up questionnaires at six months post baseline. Data collection will occur by phone unless the participant requests a hard copy survey to be mailed.

Some study participants will also be selected for a separate phone call to ask additional questions about their experience with the coaching sessions, such as what they liked and didn't like about the phone calls, and what things about them were the most and least helpful.