Improving eating habits and self-esteem for college students using a mobile app
Building Healthy Eating and Self-Esteem Together for University Students (BEST-U): A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of an mHealth Intervention for Binge-Spectrum Disorders
This study is looking to help university students who are struggling with eating disorders, especially after the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, by using a friendly mobile app that offers support and tools to improve their eating habits and boost their self-esteem.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Lawrence NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lawrence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11036075 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing eating disorders among university students, particularly in the wake of increased prevalence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to enhance access to treatment through a mobile health application that delivers guided self-help Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The intervention is designed to reduce binge eating by addressing underlying concerns related to diet and body image. Participants will engage with the app to receive support and strategies for improving their eating behaviors and self-esteem.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are university students experiencing binge eating or related eating disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have access to smartphones or mobile technology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide an accessible and effective treatment option for college students struggling with binge eating and related issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results for mobile health interventions in treating eating disorders, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Lawrence, United States
- University of Kansas Lawrence — Lawrence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Forbush, Kelsie Terese — University of Kansas Lawrence
- Study coordinator: Forbush, Kelsie Terese
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 below.