Well-Being Mobile App for Mental Health

Age: 18 - 65
Sex: Female
Trial Phase: Academic
Sponsor: University of Texas at Austin
No Placebo GroupAll trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial explores how a mental health app can improve emotional well-being for women in Mexico experiencing psychological distress. Participants will either receive free access to the app for three months or join a control group without app access. The goal is to determine if the app positively impacts mental health. Women who have experienced stress or sadness (scoring 3 or more on a simple survey), own a smartphone, use WhatsApp, and meet specific income and education criteria may qualify. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative mental health solutions.

What prior data suggests that this mobile app is safe for mental health use?

Research has shown that mental health apps are generally safe and easy to use. Studies have found that these apps can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress without causing serious side effects. For example, one study found that using these apps led to noticeable improvements in depression and anxiety. Another review highlighted that these apps offer an affordable and accessible way to support mental health. While no treatment is completely risk-free, current evidence suggests that mental health apps are a safe choice for many people.12345

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the Well-Being Mobile App for mental health because it offers a new, accessible way to support mental well-being. Unlike traditional treatments like therapy or medication, this app provides users with on-demand access to mental health resources anytime and anywhere, which can be particularly beneficial for those who find it difficult to access regular care. Additionally, the app's digital platform can personalize content and track progress over time, potentially leading to more tailored and effective support for users. This innovative approach could make mental health care more convenient and personalized, addressing gaps in current treatment options.

What evidence suggests that this app is effective for improving mental health?

Research has shown that mental health apps can effectively improve psychological well-being. One study found that these apps help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Another study discovered that these apps enhance mental health and resilience, aiding recovery from stress. A meta-analysis, which combines results from multiple studies, confirmed that well-being apps effectively reduce stress and improve mental health. Overall, mental health apps are considered a promising and cost-effective way to support mental health compared to traditional treatments. Participants in this trial will either receive free premium access to the app for three months or join a control group without app access.13456

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

Inclusion Criteria

I have a smartphone and can use WhatsApp.
I live in Mexico.
My PHQ-4 score is 3 or higher.
See 2 more

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants are offered free premium access to the emotional well-being app for three months

12 weeks
Weekly virtual check-ins

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for psychological well-being and mental health outcomes

8 weeks
2 virtual assessments

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

  • Access to app

How Is the Trial Designed?

2

Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Access to appExperimental Treatment1 Intervention
Group II: ControlActive Control1 Intervention

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Texas at Austin

Lead Sponsor

Trials
387
Recruited
86,100+

Raissa Fabregas

Lead Sponsor

Citations

Smartphone apps for mental health: systematic review ... - PMC

Smartphone apps offer a potentially cost-effective, available and accessible solution for monitoring, supporting and treating mental health conditions.

Effectiveness of evidence based mental health apps on user ...

This study evaluates the effectiveness of evidence-based health apps on user mental health outcomes, particularly depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors.

Mental Health App and Impact on Wellbeing

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness, usability, and acceptability of the application when used as a self-guided mental wellness intervention among ...

Mental health apps may help those waiting for care, study finds

The study shows that depression and anxiety symptoms, and suicidality, all decreased measurably when patients were assigned to mobile applications.

App Yourself: A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of well- ...

The study compared psychological and physical app orientations. The findings indicate that mobile apps are effective in reducing stress and ...

App yourself: A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of well ...

App yourself: A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of well-being mobile apps on employee well-being and mental health. Citation.