First project to use advanced analytics to explore identity shifts in alcohol addiction

Awakn launches 'Awakn Digital', a new unit focused on using advanced analytics to improve the effectiveness of Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy in treating Addiction. Awakn deepened its partnership with the University of Exeter to apply the latest developments in digital, technology and innovation in healthcare to tackle addiction.

Awakn previously announced an exclusive license to use and deliver the 'Ketamine in the Reduction of Alcoholic Relapse' (KARE) psychotherapy intervention, as validated in a Phase II clinical trial led by the University of Exeter.

The new agreement further deepens the partnership between Awakn and the University of Exeter by establishing a framework for the two organisations to work together to use advanced data analytics to improve the effectiveness of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in treating addiction.

The first project will use a pattern classifier to detect identity shifts following ketamine treatment in Awakn clinics. The project builds on the work of Dr Koschate-Reis who holds an EPSRC Innovation Fellowship "Psychological Identity in a Digital World" and has been working on developing digital signatures of identity shift in recovery in people with problematic substance use in collaboration with local drug and alcohol services.

Prof. Celia Morgan, Head of Psychology, Professor of Psychopharmacology, University of Exeter will lead the project.

Prof. Celia Morgan stated, "By using an advanced data analytics approach in our work with Awakn, we aim to develop a richer understanding of the process of change following psychedelic treatment. The insights gained will allow us to transform and target our treatments to maximise their effectiveness for each and every patient."

Anthony Tennyson, Awakn Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We are delighted to be deepening our relationship with the University of Exeter. There is a significant gap between patient need and effective addiction treatment solutions in the UK. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy has demonstrated early promise in being an effective treatment option for some patients. We are looking forward to assessing how advanced data analytics can improve the effectiveness of this treatment option and improve patient outcomes in the UK."