JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Clear health disparities have emerged in rates of COVID-19 exposure, hospitalization, and death among Black, Hispanic, and American Indian (BHAI) individuals, relative to Non-Hispanic White (NHW) individuals. BHAI populations have been disproportionately affected by lower behavioral health access and heightened negative mental health outcomes during the pandemic.

Objective:

The current project directly addresses health disparities in access to behavioral health care during the COVID-19 pandemic among BHAI populations via an adaptation of the established, initially validated, low-cost, mobile application (i.e., Easing Anxiety Sensitivity for Everyone; EASE) among individuals with elevated anxiety and/or depression symptoms.

Methods:

Participants (N = 800; 200 Black, 200 Hispanic, 200 American Indian, and 200 NHW) are randomized to receive either EASE or an active comparison condition for anxiety and depression. The present study includes a baseline assessment, 3-month intervention period, 3-month continued assessment period (with access to intervention materials), and 3- and 6-month post-baseline assessments that include a qualitative interview via phone or online platform (e.g., Zoom). Participants complete two scheduled daily ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) during the 3-month intervention period, and 3-month post intervention period. These twice daily EMAs guide a just-in-time approach to immediate, personalized behavioral health care.

Results:

This project was funded in May 2021. Data collection began in December 2021.

Conclusions:

If successful, findings from the present study have the potential to significantly impact public health by decreasing anxiety and depression symptoms among vulnerable populations determined to be most at risk of exacerbated, long-lasting negative health sequelae.