Motivational interviews to reduce alcohol
This study explores if supportive talks, called 'motivational interviews', led by a specially trained nurse, can help people with alcohol-related liver disease reduce how much alcohol they drink. Many people struggle to cut down and alcohol causes significant health problems, especially in the North East of England. These interviews aim to support individuals to set goals, celebrate progress, and overcome challenges. The study involves weekly sessions over 12 weeks, along with questionnaires to track alcohol intake and monitor well-being. By helping people drink less, the study hopes to improve their quality of life and prevent further liver damage, while also addressing the stigma around alcohol use.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study wants to see if a special type of counselling, called 'motivational interviewing', can help people with alcohol-related liver disease drink less alcohol. Many people find it hard to cut down, even when advised by doctors. Drinking too much alcohol is a major cause of serious health problems, including liver disease, and unfortunately, it's a big issue in the North East of England.
Currently, when someone has shown signs of liver problems linked to alcohol, they see a liver specialist. The specialist might tell them to drink less or suggest they contact local addiction services. However, it can be tough to know how much is too much, or if they're drinking for reasons like stress or loneliness. Motivational interviewing is a way to help people understand their own reasons for drinking and find their own ways to make changes. A specially trained nurse will work with you to set your own goals, celebrate your achievements, and help you find ways around any difficulties.
This type of support is already used in hospitals and by community addiction teams. This study aims to gather evidence to show if offering these nurse-led sessions after a hospital outpatient appointment can effectively help people reduce their alcohol intake, improve their health, and ultimately prevent further damage to their liver.
Key takeaways
- This study helps people with alcohol-related liver disease drink less.
- It uses nurse-led supportive talks, called 'motivational interviews'.
- Participation involves weekly sessions (in-person or phone) for 12 weeks.
- The goal is to improve health and prevent further liver damage.
- Potential risks include feeling unwell if alcohol is reduced too quickly.
- You can stop participating at any time.
Who may be eligible?
The study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who can understand and speak English. You would need to be drinking more than 25 units of alcohol per week (that's about 10 large glasses of wine or over 12 pints of standard beer) and have had some unusual liver test results or a fibroscan measurement over 8KPa. You would also need to have been seen recently in a liver clinic at a hospital in the North East of England.
You wouldn't be able to join if you show clear physical signs of alcohol dependence (meaning your body relies on alcohol), or if you're already getting help from another alcohol reduction programme like AA or community addiction services. It's also not suitable if you have serious mental health conditions like schizophrenia, psychosis, or have been in hospital for mental health issues. Finally, if you were in hospital with alcohol-related liver problems in the last year and saw addiction nurses then, you wouldn't be able to take part this time.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you speak and understand English well?
- Do you drink more than 25 units of alcohol per week (approx. 10 large wines or 12+ pints of beer)?
- Have you had recent abnormal liver tests or a fibroscan over 8KPa?
- Are you not currently in another alcohol reduction program (like AA or community services)?
- Have you NOT been in hospital with serious mental health issues like schizophrenia?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you would attend weekly 'motivational interview' sessions led by a nurse for 12 weeks. These sessions can be in person at the hospital or over the phone, whichever is more convenient for you. At the very beginning, you'll complete some questionnaires to help the study team understand your alcohol intake and overall health, including your mental well-being.
You'll then complete shorter questionnaires every four weeks to see how things are progressing. Once the 12-week programme is finished, you'll be asked for your feedback on how you found it. The total duration of active participation is 12 weeks, with follow-up questionnaires over that period.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Freeman Road HospitalCity onlyNewcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is 'motivational interviewing'?
It's a special type of supportive conversation with a trained nurse that helps you find your own reasons and ways to make positive changes, like reducing alcohol.
How long does the study last?
The main part of the study involves weekly sessions over 12 weeks, with check-in questionnaires during that time.
Will I have to stop drinking alcohol completely?
The aim is to help you reduce your alcohol intake and develop strategies to manage it better, not necessarily to stop completely.
What if I feel unwell when I cut down on alcohol?
Your doctor will check your health at the start, and the study encourages a slow reduction. If you have concerns, the study team will support you and involve your GP if needed.
Is my information kept private?
Yes, all your information will be kept confidential and used only for study purposes, following strict privacy rules.
How to find out more
Sarah Hogg
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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