Improving a chatbot to help treat eating disorders
Official title: Optimizing an automated chatbot to achieve efficient, scalable treatment for eating disorders
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11037080 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a friendly chatbot that helps people with eating disorders by offering support and strategies for managing their feelings and eating habits, making it easier for anyone who needs help to access treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 20, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $841,469 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH138735-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037080 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of eating disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing eating disorders or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance an automated chatbot designed to provide treatment for eating disorders, which are often under-treated. The project will explore the effectiveness of various components of the chatbot that address key issues related to eating disorders, such as emotional regulation and dietary restraint. By utilizing a randomized control trial, the team will identify the most effective strategies to engage users and deliver treatment efficiently. This approach seeks to make mental health support more accessible and scalable for individuals struggling with eating disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more accessible and effective treatment option for individuals with eating disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using digital interventions for mental health, indicating potential success for this chatbot approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fitzsimmons-Craft, Ellen E. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Fitzsimmons-Craft, Ellen E.
Related research
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Reducing minority stress to help sexual minority adults with eating disorders
This project tests a new, identity-affirming treatment approach designed to help sexual minority adults with eating disorders by addressing stigma-related stress and coping skills.
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Restrictive eating disorders and brain white matter development in youths
Researchers will study how restrictive eating disorders affect brain white matter development in young people using brain scans and related data.
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.