Stress
Conditions
Brief summary
The study investigators are developing and testing a mobile-friendly web-based app that contains features related to mindfulness and reducing stress for African American informal caregivers of people with chronic conditions. The purpose of the app is to help a vulnerable population reduce stress by learning and practicing mindfulness activities.
Detailed description
For Aim 1, the study investigators conducted 10 formative interviews with African American caregivers and key informants to elicit recommendations for features to be included in the app as well as feedback on preliminary ideas for features. For Aim 2, the study investigators developed the programming for the app with the desired features, which included modules for journaling, tracking stress ratings, practicing mindfulness exercises by using two videos and two audio tracks developed for the app, and viewing weekly suggestions for caregiver/care recipient bonding activities, inspirational quotes and positive affirmations. For Aim 3, the study investigators are testing the app using a feasibility trial with 30 caregiver participants. The study participants answer questions on depression, anxiety, perceived stress, overload and self-compassion at baseline and follow-up. Participants are instructed to use the app for four weeks and to return for their follow-up visit to fill out the same surveys assessed at baseline plus a satisfaction questionnaire to assess their evaluation of the app. These data will inform future enhancements, which will be proposed in a Phase II SBIR/STTR application.
Interventions
BEHAVIORALMindfulness app
The mindfulness app contains 6 modules with a variety of features to help caregivers reduce their stress.
Sponsors
Friends Research Institute, Inc.
COG Analytics
Study design
Allocation
NA
Intervention model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Intervention model description
This is a feasibility trial with a single group of 30 participants who are using an app and providing feedback on the app.
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Informal caregiver participants will be screened for the ability to speak English. In addition, the caregivers must currently be providing support for a person living with HIV. Support can include: 1) emotional support, 2) physical support, 3) financial support, 4) opportunities for social participation, and/or 5) health advice.
Exclusion criteria
* Psychiatric problems such as untreated psychosis, which could preclude their ability to successfully adhere to the intervention
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Perceived Stress | 4 weeks | Perceived stress scores entered into the app by the participant |
Countries
United States
Outcome results
None listed