The Go-VAR (Veterans Active Recovery): An Adjunctive, Exercise-Based Intervention for Veterans Recovering from Substance Use Disorders

ABSTRACTSubstance use disorders (SUD) are prevalent among veterans, and the relapse rate is estimated at ≥60% within one year of treatment. Exercise’s broad health benefits make it an appealing adjunctive component to interventions preventing relapse among individuals with SUDs. After conducting formative research, we designed and conducted the Go-VAR! (Veterans Active Recovery) pilot study to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a multi-component exercise-based intervention for veterans seeking SUD treatment through the outpatient Alcohol & Drug Treatment Program (ADTP) at the VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS). Participants (N = 15; mean age = 45 [SD = 9.7]; 13% Hispanic, 60% White) from the La Jolla VASDHS outpatient ADTP were enrolled in this 12-week one-arm pilot study. Feasibility and acceptability were established: 70% of participants attended weekly psychoeducation groups, wore their Fitbit Charge HR, increased their weekly physical activity, and used their study-provided YMCA members...