The development and pilot evaluation of a mental health mobile app in the Philippines
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to test a mobile application for mental health created for Filipinos. Specifically, it tested the Lusog-Isip mobile app vis-à-vis a mental health workbook as they affect psychosocial well-being and coping strategies of users.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a randomized control trial design. Participants were assigned to two conditions: a treatment group using the mobile app and a control group that used an existing mental health workbook. Pre- and post-tests were conducted before and two weeks after.
Findings
Results revealed improved psychological well-being and use of cognitive reappraisal for both mobile app and workbook users. Users of the mobile app reported higher scores compared to those who used the workbook for emotional release.
Originality/value
This study adds to the dearth of knowledge on the use of a mobile application for mental health in low-resource countries. It highlights the potential of using digital technologies to provide access to mental health resources in underserved populations.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to thank Ms Frances Prescilla Cuevas, Team Lead of the Department of Health’s Mental Health Division for her leadership and guidance in making this project a reality.
Funding: This study was made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) (Agreement no. 72049219CA00004) under the USAID RenewHealth Project: Expanding Access to Community Based Drug Rehabilitation in the Philippines implemented by University Research Co., LLC.
Disclaimer: The funders played no role in research design, data collection, data analysis, manuscript writeup or decision to publish. The findings and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the USAID or the United States Government.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Citation
Hechanova-Alampay, M.R., Angeles, P.L., Tuliao, A., Hilario, E., Pagente, A.F. and Narra, C.V. (2022), "The development and pilot evaluation of a mental health mobile app in the Philippines", Mental Health and Social Inclusion, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-04-2022-0024
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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