Frequently Asked Questions
About Get Better Together
What is Get Better Together?
Get Better Together (GBT) is a relationship enrichment program designed for military couples. It teaches skills to improve communication, manage stress, and effectively navigate these challenges.
Why was GBT developed?
Military service members face unique relationship challenges, and relationship problems are a major risk factor for suicide, alcohol misuse, and interpersonal violence. GBT was designed as a primary prevention program to equip couples with tools to effectively navigate these challenges.
GBT Pilot Study Results
What did participants say?
The pilot study demonstrated the retreat to be safe, enjoyable, and beneficial for participants. The pilot study included couples with a variety of experiences, including a percentage of dual-military couples.
GBT RCT Study Participation
Who is eligible to participate in the RCT?
To participate, couples must:
Be in a committed relationship for at least six months
Have one active-duty service member
Be over 18 years old
Not have attended a similar relationship education retreat
How does the study work?
Couples are randomly assigned to either attend GBT or continue with their current routines.
Those in GBT attend a weekend retreat (10 hours of content) with lodging and meals provided. These retreats are facilitated by military community members with expertise in relationship education.
All participants complete surveys at 2, 4, and 6 months to track relationship and mental health outcomes. During this time, we ask that you do not attend any other relationship education programs.
What if I wasn't assigned to GBT?
Participants who are not assigned to the GBT retreat will continue with their usual routines. After six months, they will gain access to ePREP, a leading online relationship education program.
Is participation confidential?
We will make every effort to keep your study information confidential. However, we are legally required to report any credible threat of harm to self or others, or abuse of children or elders. Your safety, and the safety of others, is our priority. This study has a Certificate of Confidentiality from the National Institutes of Health, which helps protect your privacy. This Certificate does not prevent reporting required by law.
Why Participate?
Strengthen your relationship with evidence-based skills
Improve communication and conflict resolution
Enhance emotional resilience as a couple
Contribute to research that helps military families
Receive up to $100 per partner for completing follow-up surveys