Using smartphones to detect emotional issues and predict depression in teenagers
Harnessing smartphones for real-time detection of affective disturbance and future depression risk in adolescents
This study is looking to use smartphones to help keep track of how teens are feeling by monitoring their activities, sleep, and social interactions, so we can spot early signs of sadness and help them before it turns into something more serious like depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11041252 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to utilize smartphones to monitor and analyze the emotional states of adolescents in real-time. By tracking behaviors such as activity levels, sleep patterns, and social interactions, the study seeks to identify signs of negative affective states that could lead to depression. The goal is to develop a personalized approach to predict and intervene in these emotional disturbances before they escalate into major depressive disorder. This innovative method leverages the widespread use of smartphones among teens to gather continuous data unobtrusively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who may be experiencing emotional disturbances or are at risk for depression.
Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those who do not have access to smartphones may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early detection and intervention strategies for adolescents at risk of developing depression.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using technology for mental health monitoring, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Webb, Christian Anthony — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Webb, Christian Anthony
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.