People with alcohol problems needed for study

People with alcohol problems needed for study

People who drink to feel better or to cope with difficult situations are needed for a University of Queensland study.

Researchers are seeking people who have problems with alcohol but not a high physical dependence. The Department of Psychiatry's Associate Professor David Kavanagh said the research focused on developing more effective treatments for alcohol problems.

"Subjects required want to be able to drink moderately and safely - to get control of their drinking and stay in control," he said.

"However, many find it difficult to stay in control of their drinking when something goes wrong and they feel they need a drink to make them feel better.

"These are the people we particularly want to have in this study. We have developed some new treatments that seem to be helping people deal with those times when they feel a bit discouraged or ?down' without having a drink."

Volunteers will be required to come to Royal Brisbane Hospital 10 times over a three-month period. They will also be required for a check-up at six and 12 months.

All volunteers will receive a treatment known to be effective for alcohol problems, and evening and weekend appointments are available.

For more information, contact Dr Kavanagh (telephone 07 3365 5489).