NCT07286955 · Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Life Skills Training for Soldiers Arriving at Their First Duty Location
What this study is about
This project will evaluate the effectiveness of Level Up: Boost Your Life Skills ("Level Up"), a strengths based, military-specific life skills training program. The goal is to determine whether Level Up can decrease suicidal-related behaviors (SRBs) and other harmful behaviors, improve mental health, enhance job performance, and reduce early military separation.
View original scientific description
This project will evaluate the effectiveness of Level Up: Boost Your Life Skills ("Level Up"), a strengths based, military-specific life skills training program. The goal is to determine whether Level Up can decrease suicidal-related behaviors (SRBs) and other harmful behaviors, improve mental health, enhance job performance, and reduce early military separation. The Level Up program components will be made available to participants through an online platform or mobile app that can be downloaded onto their personal mobile devices. These training materials will help Soldiers learn and practice skills. The Level Up program will also involve personalized messages from a Level Up trainer and virtual booster sessions. Soldiers arriving at their first duty location will be randomized to receive either Level Up or a single session Army bystander intervention program. Participants will complete baseline and follow up surveys 1, 3, and 6 months post-baseline.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Level Up
The Level Up program components include: * A 90-minute live group session during Soldiers' in-processing week at their first duty station * A mobile app/online platform/workbook with brief, interactive self-guided exercises in core skill areas (e.g., managing stress, tactical thinking, healthy relationships) * Personalized coaching via messages from trained Level Up staff during the first month of app use * Virtual booster sessions over one year, focused on practical domains like finances, leadership, promotion tips, and personal relationships
BEHAVIORAL
ENGAGE
ENGAGE training is a single 90-minute workshop aimed at developing leadership skills and confidence in handling professional and personal confrontations.
Primary outcome measures
The occurrence of any harmful behavior
Time frame: Within the 12 months after intervention randomization
The occurrence of any harmful behavior, either self-reported in follow up surveys or administratively reported
The occurrence of any suicide-related behavior
Time frame: Within the 12 months after intervention randomization
The occurrence of any suicide-related behavior, either self-reported in follow up surveys or administratively reported
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Active duty Soldiers arriving at a military installation located in the South Central U.S. for their first duty location who are attending reception center activities
Exclusion criteria
- Soldiers who are not available to attend the in-person training
- Soldiers who are under the age of 18 years old
- Soldiers who do not have a smart phone that supports installation of the mobile app
Where
- Fort Hood, Texas
Collaborators
Defense Health Agency, Harvard University, Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), University of Michigan
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
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.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations