The present study will assess the acceptability and feasibility of a brief intervention designed to help young heavy drinkers reduce their alcohol consumption. All participants will complete a brief (1-week) mindfulness intervention, and participants will be randomized to receive either active or inactive Respiratory-gated Auricular Vagal Afferent Nerve Stimulation (RAVANS) during two in-person laboratory visits. Heart rate variability data and self-report survey data will be collected to assess the impact of the intervention on autonomic regulation, alcohol consumption, and additional clinical measures.
Currently living in Massachusetts.
Aged 21-29 years old.
Consume either more than 14 standard drinks of alcohol per week OR at least 5 standard drinks in one day per week (in past 30 days).
Have sufficient English fluency to understand procedures and questionnaires.
Current or past diagnosis of a substance use disorder based on the Quick Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) Module C (Substance Use Disorders).
Active prescription for sedative/hypnotics, opioids, or anesthetic medications.
Active prescription for medications used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD), e.g., naltrexone, disulfiram, acamprosate, etc.
Active psychosis or schizophrenia-spectrum disorder diagnosis.