Plain-English translation of NCT07742722 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing a program called Honest, Open, Proud (HOP), which is run by fellow veterans who have lived experience with mental health and substance use challenges. The program aims to help justice-involved veterans reduce self-stigma—the shame they feel about their conditions—so they're more willing to seek and stay in treatment. Researchers want to see if the program works better when staff receive extra coaching and support to deliver it well.
Many justice-involved veterans struggle with mental health or substance use disorders, but fewer than one in three actually get treatment. A major barrier is shame and self-stigma: veterans feel embarrassed or judged, so they avoid asking for help. This trial exists to test whether a peer-led program can break down that shame and help more veterans access the care they need.
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You would participate in the Honest, Open, Proud program, which is delivered by peer specialists (veterans like you). The trial runs for about a year at your VA site: staff will first spend 6 months receiving monthly data reports and feedback on how the program is going, then 6 months receiving more intensive coaching through twice-monthly meetings with a facilitator. Throughout this time, you'll attend the program sessions as offered, and researchers will track how often you use VA mental health services, emergency care, and other outcomes to see if the program is working.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 3, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States