New study tests whether helping others can help you feel less lonely

NCT ID NCT06510439

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a program called 'Need to Be Needed' (N2BN) that uses volunteering to help adults with serious mental illness feel more connected and less lonely. 120 participants will either join the volunteering program or receive weekly listening support. Researchers will measure changes in loneliness, social networks, and well-being over six months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Need to Be Needed (N2BN) intervention (volunteering with support)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a low-cost, community-based way to reduce loneliness and improve social connection for people with serious mental illness.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage trial with only 120 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The intervention relies on volunteering, which may not suit all individuals.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar I disorder bipolar II disorder major depressive disorder schizophrenia Social Isolation

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Hall Mercer

    RECRUITING

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19106, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••