Meditation App for Mental Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a meditation app, called Bodhi AIM, can improve mental health and reduce cannabis-related issues among young people on probation in Cook County, IL. The study will also assess whether the app aids in emotion control and if participants adhere to the meditation program. Participants will be divided into two groups: one using the Bodhi AIM app and the other using a health promotion app (HIB) for comparison. The trial seeks English-speaking youth aged 13-20 who are currently in probation programming and have access to a smartphone. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could positively impact mental health support for young people.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that the Bodhi AIM meditation app is safe for youth on probation?
Research shows that meditation apps like Bodhi AIM are generally safe and easy to use. These apps are popular for mental health, and many people use them without major problems.
Studies have found that meditation apps usually don't cause serious side effects, meaning users typically don’t experience harmful effects. While side effects are rare, some people might feel a bit uncomfortable or find it hard to focus during meditation.
Overall, using a meditation app like Bodhi AIM is considered low-risk. It primarily helps improve mental health through mindfulness exercises.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Bodhi AIM meditation app because it offers a fresh approach to mental health care by combining mindfulness techniques with the convenience of digital technology. Unlike traditional therapies that often require in-person sessions, Bodhi AIM allows users to access meditation practices anytime, anywhere through their smartphones. This accessibility could make mental wellness support more inclusive and adaptable to individual lifestyles, potentially reaching people who might not otherwise engage with mental health services. Additionally, the app’s use of guided meditation and mindfulness practices targets stress reduction and emotional regulation, offering a proactive tool for mental health management.
What evidence suggests that the Bodhi AIM meditation app is effective for improving behavioral health outcomes?
Research has shown that meditation apps like Bodhi AIM, which participants in this trial may receive, can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. Some studies have found that regular use of these apps can enhance emotional management. For the Bodhi AIM app, early results suggest it might help reduce cannabis use. The app guides users through meditation exercises that promote calmness and focus. While results can vary, consistent use of the app might lead to positive changes in mental health. Participants in the active control arm will receive the HIB health promotion app, which serves as a comparator in this trial.12367
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking youth aged 13-20 in Cook County's probation programming who have access to a smartphone and can understand and provide consent. Parental consent is required for those under 18.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants use either the meditation app or an active control app daily for 30 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for behavioral health outcomes and app adherence
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Bodhi AIM
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Illinois at Chicago
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Collaborator