Just Published: Exploring the impact of a brief smartphone-based alcohol intervention app (DrinksRation) on the quality of life of UK military veterans

I am excited to share the results of our new secondary data analysis study entitled "Exploring the impact of a brief smartphone-based alcohol intervention app (DrinksRation) on the quality of life of UK military veterans", which was recently published in Behaviour Research and Therapy. This study not only underscores the prevalent issue of alcohol misuse among veterans but also highlights the potential benefits of using DrinksRation which is tailored to their unique needs.

Study Background

Alcohol misuse, defined as consuming more than 14 units per week, is a common issue among UK veterans. The DrinksRation app, a smartphone intervention lasting at least 28 days, employs behavioural change techniques aimed at reducing alcohol consumption. This research focused on the app's efficacy in enhancing the quality of life for veterans who have sought clinical help for mental health issues.

Methodology

The study was a secondary outcome analysis within a randomised control trial involving 123 participants, who were divided into an intervention group and a control group. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF instrument, which measures four domains: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental quality.

Key Findings

1. Short-term improvements Notable in specific domains:
   • Participants in the intervention group reported statistically significant improvements in psychological and environmental quality of life domains by day 84 post-intervention;
   • No long-term benefits were observed at day 168, highlighting the need for ongoing support beyond the initial intervention period.
2. Physical and social domains showed limited change:
   • The intervention did not significantly impact the physical health or social relationships domains throughout the trial period;
   • This suggests the need for integrated approaches that also address these aspects of well-being.

Practical Implications

The study's findings indicate that while the DrinksRation app can temporarily improve certain aspects of life quality among veterans dealing with alcohol misuse, the effects are modest and diminish over time. This isn't a surprise when we consider the literature related to brief interventions. This points to the potential need for additional or sustained intervention strategies to maintain benefits.

Conclusion

"Exploring the impact of a brief smartphone-based alcohol intervention app (DrinksRation) on the quality of life of UK military veterans" provides important insights into the specific benefits and limitations of a digitally delivered intervention.

The article study is available in Behaviour Research and Therapy and can be accessed here.