Using smartphone apps to monitor mood changes in bipolar disorder

Detecting dynamic fluctuations in emotion, mood, and functioning: A digital phenotyping approach to clinical monitoring in bipolar disorder

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11000842

This study is exploring how a new smartphone app can help people with bipolar disorder keep track of their moods in real-time, making it easier to understand their emotional ups and downs over six months without needing constant check-ins.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11000842 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how smartphone applications can be used to continuously monitor emotional patterns in individuals with bipolar disorder. By utilizing a method called ecological momentary assessment (EMA) alongside a new app called PRIORI, the study aims to unobtrusively track mood fluctuations and predict mood symptoms. Participants will engage in a six-month protocol where their emotional states are assessed through passive monitoring of ambient audio, allowing for a more accurate understanding of their mood dynamics without the burden of frequent assessments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder who experience mood instability.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have bipolar disorder or those with stable mood patterns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and management of mood symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using digital phenotyping and mobile applications for monitoring mental health, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Conditions bipolar affective disorderbipolar disease
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.