Internet Self Help Therapy for Problem Drinking: Retention and Effectiveness

INTERVENTION: The current study aims to conduct a randomised controlled trial over 3 months that investigates the effectiveness of an internet‐delivered alcohol intervention. The intervention consists of an interactive, internet based, self‐help program comprising 5 modules, each covering a specific theme (e.g. mindfulness, cognitive restructuring). Each module was designed to take between 30 and 60 minutes to complete (i.e. approximately 5 hours in total). Participants are able to skip certain sections and can complete modules in any order. The study also aims to enhance retention rates to the online program with the addition of reminder text messages to motivate clients to continue logging on to the program. Text messages will be sent on average 3‐4 times per week over the three month trial period. Thus, the intervention condition involves open access to an online alcohol intervention and the addition of reminder text messages. CONDITION: Problematic alcohol use PRIMARY OUTCOME: AUDIT‐C (a screener to help identify persons who are engaging in problematic alcohol use) SECONDARY OUTCOME: Attrition or retention rates from the study Kessler‐10 (general well‐being scale) Participants overall engagement in the program (as measured by number of log‐ins and number of pages accessed) Quality of Life Inventory (measures quality of life) INCLUSION CRITERIA: Participants will be included in the study if they (1) currently engage in problematic alcohol use (i.e., consumption above recommended drinking levels as suggested by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia: i.e. the present intake is greater than or equal to 14 standard drinks per week; or 4 standard units on a single occasion for men or 3 for women); (2) have access to the internet and a mobile phone; (3) are above the age of 18; (4) agree to undergo no other psychological treatment throughout the study; and (6) have sufficient English and literacy skills to understand the written interventions without translation.