A smartphone app providing mental health support for teenagers
Official title: Digital Delivery of Evidence-Based Mental Health Content and Mentoring to Adolescents
Funded at Appa Health INC · NIH-10879048 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a fun app called Appa Health that helps teenagers aged 13-18 learn about mental health and get support from relatable mentors, to see if it can help them feel better when dealing with issues like depression and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Appa Health INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oakland, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $604,026 |
| NIH project number | 5R44MH134733-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10879048 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 13-18 who are experiencing elevated levels of depression and/or anxiety.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not adolescents or those without significant mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a smartphone and computer app called Appa Health, designed specifically for adolescents. The app delivers short, evidence-based mental health content, primarily focusing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, through engaging educational videos presented by mental health experts who are also internet influencers. Additionally, the app incorporates trained near-peer mentors who provide relatable support and accountability to help adolescents effectively use the mental health resources. The study aims to evaluate the app's effectiveness in improving mental health outcomes, such as depression and anxiety, among teenagers aged 13-18.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide adolescents with accessible mental health resources and support, potentially improving their mental well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using digital platforms and peer support for mental health interventions, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Appa Health INC
Oakland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Robert Joseph — Appa Health INC
- Study coordinator: Miller, Robert Joseph
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.