Date Approved

8-29-2023

Embargo Period

9-6-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. Clinical Psychology

Department

Psychology

College

College of Science & Mathematics

Advisor

Jim A. Haugh, Ph.D.

Committee Member 1

Dustin Fife, Ph.D.

Committee Member 2

Steven Brunwasser, Ph.D.

Keywords

clinical depression, smartphone apps, mental health

Subject(s)

Depression, Mental--Treatment

Disciplines

Clinical Psychology

Abstract

Depression is a debilitating and prevalent psychiatric condition, however, few individuals with depression seek mental health treatment. Mental health apps (MHapps) represent one treatment delivery option that may reduce gaps in mental health care. Current evidence suggests that MHapps are efficacious for reducing depressive symptoms, yet little is known about how MHapps are effective. Thus, the aims of the present study were 1) to examine whether two MHapps were effective for reducing depressive symptoms and 2) to determine whether variables such as user engagement, guidance, outcome expectancies, preferences, and coping skill development were associated with effectiveness. A community sample (N=20) was recruited and completed measures over a two week period. Results suggested that symptoms of depression decreased within the sample across both app conditions and were impacted by the reception of outside mental health treatment. Additionally, increases in mindfulness skills were associated with decreases in depressive symptoms across app conditions. Clinical implications of findings and future directions will be explored.

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