The Fundamental Adaptive Skills Training

BEHAVIORAL

Fundamental Adaptive Skills Training

The FAST intervention will be approximately 60 minutes in duration. The video component of FAST, animated using the Vyond software, will be presented via computer or projector. Pause points and brief interactive exercises will be added throughout the presentation to promote engagement and ensure comprehension of FAST material. The treatment will be sectioned into thirds: a physical health section focused on sleep hygiene and physical activity, an anxiety sensitivity section dispelling common AS myths, and a social health section. Each section will contain brief psychoeducation focused on dispelling common myths or promoting adaptive skills use.

BEHAVIORAL

Relaxation and Mindfulness Training

The RMT intervention will be primarily psychoeducational and focused on explaining relaxation methods used in various psychological treatments such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness-focused breathing exercises. Interactive relaxation and mindfulness exercises and brief discussions following each relaxation component will be included to control for time spent on interactive exercises in the FAST condition. The intervention will take approximately 60 minutes. Tailored to control for the effects of general education, practice exercises, and time spent on the FAST intervention, RMT will be a stronger control in comparison to a waitlist or repeated contact condition. Like the FAST intervention, this program will also be digitalized to allow for ease-of-administration.

Acceptability Questionnaire

Time frame: Post-intervention through week 4 follow up

Self report measure indexing intervention acceptability. Scores range from 0 to 27 with higher scores indicating more favorable acceptability.

Athens Insomnia Scale

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

8 item self report measure of sleep quality. Scores range from 0 to 24 with higher scores indicating more severe sleep problems.

Brief Physical Activity Assessment Tool

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

2 item self report measure indexing physical activity. Scores range from 0 to 8 with higher scores indicating more frequent engagement in physical activity.

Anxiety Sensitivity Index 3

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

18 item self report measure indexing anxiety sensitivity. Scores range from 0 to 72 with higher scores indicating more severe anxiety sensitivity.

UCLA Loneliness 10

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

10 item self-report measure indexing loneliness. Scores range from 10 to 40 with higher scores indicating more severe loneliness symptoms.

PROMIS Anxiety Scale 8a

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

8 item self report measure of anxiety. Scores range from 8 to 40 with higher scores indicating more severe anxiety symptoms.

PROMIS Depression 8b

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

8 item self report measure indexing depression. Scores range from 8 to 40 with higher scores indicating more severe depression symptoms

Perceived Stress Scale

Time frame: Baseline through week 4 follow up

14 item self report measure indexing stress. Scores range from 0 to 56 with higher scores reflecting more severe stress symptoms.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.