An Updated Scoping Review of Popular Stress Management Mobile Applications
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Date
2020-05
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness are evidence-based methods shown to support positive stress management. Smartphone applications have the potential to guide people through CBT and mindfulness strategies. The purpose of this scoping review is to update the evidence on stress management mobile applications "apps." We specifically aim to provide an overview of stress management app characteristics and app quality. Following the PRISMA-ScR checklist, the Apple App Store and Google Play store were systematically searched from the perspective of a patient seeking an app to help with stress management. Descriptive data was entered into an excel spreadsheet and the end-user Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS) was used to determine app quality. A total of 14 apps met inclusion criteria and were evaluated. We found that though these apps scored above average on the uMARS scale, there was still room for improvement. Many apps were not available in languages other than English. Cumulative uMARS scores indicated that stress management apps in this study were of above average quality, but there are room for improvements. Engagement, subjective quality, and perceived impact scores were the lowest. To have a meaningful impact on health, it is important to continuously evaluate app quality to guide meaningful design and development.
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Keywords
Mobile applications, mHealth, Stress, Mental Health