Using mobile health technology to help reduce anxiety and depression in people living with HIV in rural areas.
Official title: Adaptation and implementation of a behavioral mHealth intervention to reduce anxiety and depression and end the HIV epidemic in the rural South
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10984985 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help people living with HIV in rural areas who are dealing with anxiety and depression by using a mobile app to provide counseling support from community health workers, making it easier for them to get the mental health care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 9, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $183,081 |
| NIH project number | 5K23MH131463-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984985 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing anxiety or depression and reside in rural Southern regions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or those who are not experiencing mental health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the high rates of anxiety and depression among people living with HIV in the rural South. It aims to adapt a counseling intervention delivered by community health workers through a mobile health application. By integrating mental health support into existing healthcare systems, the project seeks to improve overall health outcomes and reduce barriers to care for this underserved population. The study will involve qualitative assessments to ensure the intervention is effective and culturally appropriate.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mental health and HIV management for individuals in rural areas.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that mobile health interventions can effectively improve mental health outcomes in similar populations, suggesting a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manavalan, Preeti — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Manavalan, Preeti
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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.