JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Meditation apps have the potential to increase access to evidence-based strategies to promote mental health. However, it is currently unclear how meditation apps are situated within the broader landscape of meditation practice and what factors may influence engagement with meditation apps.

Objective:

The current study aimed to clarify the prevalence and correlates of meditation app usage in a population-based sample of individuals with lifetime exposure to meditation in the United States (US). In addition, we sought to identify concerns and desired features of meditation apps among those with lifetime exposure to meditation.

Methods:

A total of 953 participants completed an initial screening survey. Of these, 434 reported lifetime exposure to meditation and completed a follow-up survey (92.3% response rate) assessing their meditation app use, anxiety, depression, loneliness, initial motivation for meditation, and concerns about and desired features of meditation apps.

Results:

Almost half of the participants (49.3%) who completed the screening survey reported lifetime exposure to meditation. Among those with lifetime exposure to meditation (i.e., meditators), more than half (58.76%) used meditation apps at least once in their life and 21.66% used meditation apps weekly or daily (i.e., active users). Younger age, higher anxiety, and having a mental health motivation for practicing meditation were associated with lifetime exposure to meditation apps. Among meditators, those with lifetime exposure to meditation apps were more likely to report concerns about apps including concerns regarding the cost and effectiveness of apps, time required for use, technical issues within apps, and app user-friendliness. Meditators who used meditation apps weekly or daily (i.e., active users) were younger, were less likely to be male, lower income, and non-Hispanic White, and were more likely to have an initial spiritual motivation for meditation. Active users reported more concerns regarding usability and technical problems and were less likely to report disinterest in apps. Headspace and Calm were the most frequently used apps. Tips and reminders for practice, encouragement for “mini” practices, and mental health content were the most desired features. Participants were less interested in social features (e.g., the ability to communicate with other users and/or teachers).

Conclusions:

Meditation apps are commonly used by US meditators, with higher use among certain demographic groups. Future studies may increase user engagement in meditation apps by addressing concerns (e.g., cost, effectiveness) and incorporating desired features (e.g., tips and reminders for practice).