Why Use Technology in Substance Use Treatment?

The most common reasons to use technology all come down to accessibility. Technology can:

• Reach people who live far from clinics or lack transportation
• Offer support between appointments, such as reminders or coping suggestions, as opposed to during office visits
• Deliver rewards electronically to keep participants motivated
• Reduce stigma by allowing more privacy and flexibility
• Open doors for those who lack the funds for more traditional treatments

Technology cannot take the place of human support, but it can be used as a stepping stone when people need a boost. When addiction recovery is usually one step forward, one step back, it can help to have as much support as possible.

Types of Digital Tools Being Studied

Common examples in clinical trials include:

• Tracking apps: Smartphones can help track substance use, cravings, mood, and goals
• SMS: Text messages can provide tips, reminders, and encouragement
• Telehealth: Using video or audio tools to connect to counseling, group therapy, or medication
• Online modules: Lessons that teach coping skills, relapse prevention, or stress management
• Reward systems Digital programs that provide rewards for attending sessions or submitting negative drug screens

Whether you’re focused on starting treatment or preventing relapse, researchers are considering how each tool works to keep people from using again, and which combination of tools can best help people based on their background. For example, SMS programs plus telehealth may work best for maintaining sobriety while online modules plus reward programs may be best for those just starting their recovery journey.

What Participation in a Digital Trial Might Involve

To participate in a digital trial, you might need to:

• Download the trial app or use a secure web portal
• Complete daily or weekly check-ins about mood, cravings, and substance use
• Opt into personalized messages or prompts based on your data
• Join video visits with counselors or peer coaches
• Adjust your current addiction support, depending on the study design

Some programs offer financial incentives to meet your goals, so you may want to learn how they structure the rewards. For example, do you earn a certain number of points and then cash it in for a gift card? Or do you receive a small cash bonus for every new milestone?

Privacy and Data Security

Before you share details about your relapse triggers and motivations, consider your privacy. You should know:

• The data the app collects, like location, contacts, messages, etc.
• How the data is stored and who has access to it
• If information will be shared with outside companies or only with the research team
• How information will be shared, scrubbed, or obscured throughout the trial

The best programs will build in multiple layers of security, like encryption and firewalls, and be entirely transparent about what they’ll do with the data.

Benefits and Limitations

Potential benefits include:

• Access to support and treatment tools at any time of day
• Better tracking of patterns and triggers, which can help you identify the best areas for change
• Increased engagement through reminders and rewards
• Reduced need for frequent in-person visits

Limitations can include:

• Technology fatigue or feeling “watched” by constant prompts
• Can unintentionally become a replacement for traditional support
• May be frustrating to use without reliable wi-fi or updated smartphone

There are several reasons to explore recovery technology, but the most compelling is the need for consistent resources in an addict’s life. Whether that’s a 12-step pamphlet, a sponsor, or a digital trial app (or a combination), the reality is that all addicts will need powerful reminders of why the difficult steps they’re making are ultimately worth it in the long run.

Questions to Ask Before Joining a Digital Trial

Consider asking:

• What exactly will I do with the app or online platform?
• How much time will I spend on it each week?
• What happens if my phone is lost, stolen, or breaks?
• Will I receive technical support if I run into trouble?
• Can I continue to use the app or program after the study ends?
• How will this interfere with or complement my current support, if at all?
• Do I feel comfortable if my data is used to help other addicts?

Clinical trials for technology can alter the course of not just your recovery journey but also how technology is used in the future. Whether you’re considering enrolling after 20 years of sobriety or you’re considering an out-patient program, they may be worth a shot.