App Support Strategies for Mental Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial seeks to determine the best way to enhance support for a meditation app designed to improve mental health. The app targets four key areas: Awareness, Connection, Insight, and Purpose, using podcasts and guided meditation. Participants will receive various types of support, such as Introductory Coaching Sessions, Introductory Information Sessions, Microsupport, and On-Demand Email Support, to identify the most effective combination. The trial seeks individuals who have experienced ongoing symptoms of depression or anxiety, understand English, and have access to a smartphone and internet. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative mental health solutions.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that mental health apps like the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) are generally safe for users. Many studies have found these apps effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. For instance, one study found that people experienced less depression and anxiety when using mental health apps while waiting for care.
The study also includes introductory coaching and information sessions. These sessions, common in mental health care, are known to be safe. They offer a structured way for users to learn and participate without significant risks.
On-demand email support is another part of the study. This type of digital support is widely used and considered safe. It allows users to ask for help when needed, providing extra support without major safety concerns.
Overall, the components of this study—microsupport, coaching, information sessions, and email support—are well-established in mental health care and do not pose any known safety risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these mental health app support strategies because they offer a flexible and personalized approach to managing mental health, which is a shift from traditional therapy or medication. These treatments combine introductory coaching or information sessions with microsupport and on-demand email support, making them accessible anytime and anywhere. Unlike standard care that often involves in-person therapy sessions, these app-based strategies can provide immediate support and guidance, allowing users to engage with mental health resources at their convenience. This could revolutionize mental health care by making it more adaptable to individual needs and lifestyles, potentially improving engagement and outcomes.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for mental health?
Research has shown that digital health coaching can greatly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. In this trial, participants may receive an Introductory Coaching Session, which studies have shown leads to better mental health when combined with a meditation app. Other participants will attend Introductory Information Sessions, which can lower healthcare costs and provide timely help through mental health apps. Microsupport, another option in this trial, offers small, focused help that improves mental health without overwhelming users. Additionally, some participants will have access to On-Demand Email Support, which boosts emotional well-being by offering quick and easy assistance. Together, these methods offer promising ways to support mental health through digital tools.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Simon Goldberg, PhD
Principal Investigator
UW Madison
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for US residents who speak English, have a smartphone with internet, and show signs of depression or anxiety (with specific scores on PHQ-9/GAD-7 tests). It's not for those with psychosis or mania history, current suicidal thoughts, or unwilling to provide certain personal information.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete a baseline survey and daily check-in assessment
Intervention
Participants engage with the meditation app and receive varying levels of support
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Introductory Coaching Session
- Introductory Information Session
- Microsupport
- On-Demand Email Support
Trial Overview
The study examines the effectiveness of different support strategies within a meditation app called Healthy Minds Program. Participants will receive microsupport, an introductory coaching session, basic info about the app, or on-demand email support to see which helps most.
How Is the Trial Designed?
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Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator
Citations
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