Using mobile health tools to improve adolescent mental health in Kenya

Implementing a Digital Adolescent Behavioral Health Screening, Literacy, and Low-Intensity Intervention for Common Adolescent Mental Health Problems in Kenya

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10886138

This study is testing a new mobile app called mSELY that helps teenagers in Kenya learn about mental health and get the support they need, making it easier for them and their families to access helpful resources.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886138 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the high burden of mental health disorders among adolescents in low-and middle-income countries, specifically Kenya. It involves developing and testing a mobile health intervention called mSELY, which includes screening tools and resources for adolescents and their caregivers. The intervention focuses on enhancing mental health literacy and providing tailored support to improve mental health outcomes. By utilizing technology, the project seeks to make mental health services more accessible and effective for young people.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents in Kenya who may be experiencing mental health challenges or are at risk for such issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those who do not reside in Kenya may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mental health outcomes for adolescents by providing them with accessible tools and resources for self-help and support.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using mobile health interventions for mental health support, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.