Accepted for/Published in: JMIR mHealth and uHealth
Date Submitted: Jan 14, 2020
Date Accepted: Mar 22, 2020
Date Submitted to PubMed: May 1, 2020
Science or Snake Oil? A Systematic Review of iPhone and Android Smartphone Applications for Psychosocial Wellness and Stress Management
ABSTRACT
Background:
In an oversaturated market of commercially available smartphone applications for psychosocial self-care and stress management, health-care providers, patients, and consumers interested in mental health-related apps may wonder which, if any, are efficacious. Readily available metrics for consumers include user popularity and media buzz rather than scientific evidence.
Objective:
This systematic review has two primary objectives: 1) to examine the breadth of therapeutic contents and features of psychosocial wellness and stress management apps available for commercial download; and, 2) to determine which of these apps have original research support.
Methods:
First, we conducted a systematic review of commercially available apps on Apple and Google Play platforms utilizing conventional self-help-seeking search terms related to wellness and stress. Results were limited to English-language apps available for free download. Two reviewers independently evaluated all apps and discussed findings to reach 100% consensus regarding inclusion. Second, a literature review was conducted on the included apps to identify supporting studies with original data collection.
Results:
We screened 3,287 apps and found 1,009 psychosocial wellness and stress management apps. Content varied widely. The most common evidence-based strategy was mindfulness/meditation, followed by positive psychology and goal-setting. Most apps were intended to be used as self-help interventions with only 1% involving an e-therapist and 2% designed as a supplement to in-person psychotherapy. Only 5% targeted individuals with psychological disorders, and <1% targeted other chronic illnesses. Approximately 2% (n=21) were supported by original research publications, with a total of 25 efficacy studies and 10 feasibility/usability studies. The “Headspace” mindfulness app had the most evidence, including 8 efficacy studies. Most other scientifically backed apps were supported by a single feasibility or efficacy study.
Conclusions:
Only 2% (n=21) of commercially available psychosocial wellness and stress management smartphone apps discoverable to self-help seekers have published, peer-reviewed evidence of feasibility and/or efficacy. Clinicians and investigators may use these findings to help patients and families navigate the volume of emerging digital health interventions for stress management and wellness.
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Copyright
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