Intervening on Opioid Use and Loneliness

Addressing Loneliness as a Therapy Target Among Individuals Using Opioids

This study aims to enroll 300 participants who will be assigned to one of three 3 groups. Each group will receive an intervention lasting 6, weekly sessions of 40-60 minutes. Eligibility include having an opioid use disorder and reporting loneliness or feeling alone or disconnected.

Individuals (n = 300) with an opioid use disorder reporting loneliness will be randomized to either (1) therapist-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy for perceived social isolation, (2) therapist-delivered Health Education, or (3) self-guided Health Education. Loneliness, opioid and other substance use, the amount of social interactions, social support, and mental and physical health factors prior to starting the treatment, after completing the treatment, and 1, 3, and 6 months following the treatment will be assessed to see how well they work compared to each other.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Must be 18+
• understand English -have internet access-
• screen positive for an opioid use disorder
• screen positive for elevated loneliness

Exclusion Criteria:

• does not understand consent
• does not have consistent access to a phone and internet