Healthy Minds Program App for Mental Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a mobile app designed to enhance mental well-being through personalized use. Researchers aim to assess how various features, such as the order of lessons or supportive messages, impact mental health over time. Participants should show signs of depression and be comfortable using a smartphone in English. It is ideal for those who have not previously tried meditation or the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) app. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative mental health research and potentially improve well-being.
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 is best to consult with the trial coordinators for guidance.
What prior data suggests that the Healthy Minds Program app is safe?
Research has shown that the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) app is generally safe for users. The app includes meditation exercises to improve mental health. Studies have found that using the app for just 5 minutes a day can greatly reduce stress and anxiety. No reports of harmful effects have emerged from using the app. As a digital tool, it lacks the side effects associated with medications. Instead, it guides users through mindfulness exercises to support well-being. Overall, the app is well-received and designed to boost mental health without causing harm.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) app because it offers a fresh approach to mental health care through digital means. Unlike traditional treatments that often require in-person therapy sessions or medication, the HMP app provides an accessible and flexible platform for mental wellness through your smartphone. This app is unique because it personalizes the user experience by tailoring module orders based on individual scores, providing practice-nudging messages, and offering targeted microsupport messages. These innovative features could make mental health support more engaging and effective, potentially reaching a wider audience with greater convenience.
What evidence suggests that the Healthy Minds Program app could be effective for mental health?
Research has shown that the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) app may improve mental well-being. Studies have found that it can lower stress and boost overall happiness in users. The app excels at enhancing social interactions, which are crucial for mental health. It includes features like mindfulness meditation, commonly found in many successful mental health apps. These early findings suggest that the HMP app could serve as a useful tool for mental health support.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Simon Goldberg, PhD
Principal Investigator
Center for Healthy Minds
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with elevated symptoms of depression who have access to a smartphone and internet, can understand English, and receive text messages. It's not for those with prior meditation experience, history of psychosis or mania, travel plans within six weeks, suicidal thoughts, non-US citizens or residents, or previous users of the HMP app.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants engage with the Healthy Minds Program app with various training conditions over a 4-week period
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the intervention period
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Healthy Minds Program (HMP) app
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Lead Sponsor
Templeton World Charity Foundation
Collaborator