Creating tools to understand and assess hallucinations using smartphones
Official title: Developing Data-Driven Clinical Signatures for People Who Experience Hallucinations
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11064084 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for people who experience hallucinations to help test a new smartphone app that lets them share their thoughts and experiences in real-time, so we can better understand their needs and identify those who might be at risk for more serious mental health challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $2,139,265 |
| NIH project number | 5U01MH135901-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064084 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals who experience hallucinations, whether as part of a mental disorder or in the general population.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience hallucinations or have conditions unrelated to hallucinations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop innovative methods for assessing hallucinations through smartphone technology. Participants will use a mobile app to complete brief self-reports, audio diaries, and memory tasks in their everyday environments, allowing for a more accurate understanding of their experiences. By leveraging machine learning and computational methods, the study seeks to identify individuals at risk for severe mental health issues related to hallucinations. This approach moves beyond traditional clinical assessments, providing real-time data that can enhance risk evaluation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and support for individuals experiencing hallucinations, potentially reducing hospitalizations and improving mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using mobile technology for mental health assessments, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ben-Zeev, Dror — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Ben-Zeev, Dror
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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.