Researchers at multiple universities ran a randomized trial of a smartphone app combined with personal coaching by text. The trial included more than 6,200 university students and the results were published in Nature Human Behavior.
Compared with students who received only a referral to campus services, those offered the app reported fewer symptoms at six weeks, six months and two years and were more likely to be free of any mental health disorder. The app delivers a digital version of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); users complete interactive modules and respond to prompts, while coaches review progress and send personalized messages to help implementation.
Accessibility was an important benefit: many students used the app at least once, including students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The researchers stressed the app is not intended to replace campus counseling, but to remove barriers and extend evidence-based care. The work was supported by the National Institute of Mental Health and funded in whole or in part by the National Institutes of Health.
Difficult words
- randomize — to choose by chance for fair comparisonrandomized
- trial — a study that tests a treatment or method
- referral — a recommendation to a service or specialist
- symptom — a sign that shows a health problemsymptoms
- disorder — a medical or mental health condition
- accessibility — the ability to reach or use something easily
- disadvantaged — lacking money or social advantages
- cognitive behavioral therapy — a talking treatment to change thoughts and actions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think a smartphone app could help students at your school? Why or why not?
- What reasons might stop students from using campus counseling, and how could an app reduce these barriers?
- How important is accessibility when offering mental health care to different groups of students?
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