Study Overview

We are currently recruiting individuals who feel sad or down, are generally restless or nervous, or have been diagnosed with a mood disorder, such as anxiety or depression. Interested individuals will first complete a brief online application and in-person screening prior to participation.


Qualifications

To be eligible for the study, participants must:

  • Be between the ages of 21 and 35
  • Consume on average at least 1 alcoholic drink per week
  • Be in generally good health
  • Remain abstinent from recreational drugs and alcohol 24 hours before each session

Application & Candidate Screening

Candidate screening involves 3 steps:

  1. Complete Online Application (5-10 min)
    Link: Click here to complete online application
  2. Conduct Phone Interview with Study Staff (5-10 min)
    Staff calls for a brief phone interview to verify your online responses, ask additional questions, and answer any questions you have about study participation.
  3. In-Person Screening and Orientation Visit (2-2.5 hours)
    • Completed at our lab at the University of Chicago in Hyde Park
    • Scheduled Monday-Friday starting between 9am-3pm.
    • During visit, complete surveys & interviews about your health & substance use, undergo a brief medical exam and blood draw, and be introduced to study tasks and procedures.
    • Transportation costs will be reimbursed or an Uber will be provided by the study

Experimental Sessions

All eligible candidates will complete 2 experimental sessions during the study

  • Completed at our lab at the University of Chicago in Hyde Park
  • Scheduled Monday-Friday after 10am
  • Each session lasts about 4-6 hours
  • Transportation to each session will be reimbursed, and, following each session, the study will arrange for a pre-paid Uber to transport participants home

During each session:

  • Answer mood questionnaires about how you feel
  • Consume a beverage containing alcohol, a stimulant, or a sedative
  • Provide blood pressure readings, saliva samples, and breath tests
  • Complete tasks to measure your motor skills, eye movements, and cognitive speed

Time Commitment

It is estimated that participation in the study will involve:

  • Online Application = 5-10 minutes
  • Phone Interview = 5-10 minutes
  • In-Person Screening & Orientation Visit = 2-2.5 hours
  • Experimental Sessions = 2 @ 4-5 hours/each
  • Follow-Up Interviews = 15-20 min/each
Total Estimate ~ 13 hours of time


Compensation & Benefits

For participation in the study, you will receive the following compensation & benefits:

  • Payment = $250.00
  • Contribution to Science
    Participation contributes to scientific knowledge about understanding effects of common substances on mood and behavior
  • Personal Insight
    Answering questionnaires may provide insight and feedback about personal feelings, beliefs, and behaviors.