Creating a mobile health app to help young adults with alcohol misuse and suicidal thoughts

Development and Evaluation of an Avatar Guided Mobile Health for Emerging Adults

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-10906238

This study is testing a fun and interactive app for young adults aged 18-21 who are dealing with alcohol misuse and mental health challenges, like feeling down or having suicidal thoughts, to help them learn new skills and get support right when they need it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10906238 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a mobile health (mHealth) intervention specifically designed for emerging adults aged 18-21 who struggle with alcohol misuse and related mental health issues, such as suicidal thoughts. The approach involves creating an interactive, avatar-guided app that provides education, skills training, and personalized feedback to help users monitor their mood and behaviors. By utilizing technology, the research aims to bridge the gap between emergency department visits and outpatient care, ensuring that young adults receive the support they need in a timely manner.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are emerging adults aged 18-21 who have experienced alcohol misuse or suicidal thoughts.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 18-21 or those without issues related to alcohol misuse or suicidality may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce alcohol misuse and suicidal behaviors among young adults, leading to improved mental health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mobile health interventions for mental health support, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

WORCESTER, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.