Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mobile App for Prolonged Grief Disorder Symptoms

Authors

  • Anaïs Aeschlimann Orcid
    Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Nicolas Gordillo Orcid
    Department of Informatics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Taro Ueno Orcid
    SUSMED Inc., Tokyo, Japan
  • Andreas Maercker Orcid
    Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Clare Killikelly Orcid
    Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada

Abstract

Background: Mobile apps provide a unique platform for mental health assessment and monitoring. They can provide real time, accessible data on symptoms of mental disorders that may yield rich data for detailed clinical assessment and help individuals gain insight into their current mental state. We developed one of the first apps for tracking symptoms of prolonged grief disorder. Method: In this pilot feasibility study, we assess the feasibility and acceptability of a new mobile app mGAGE for use once a day for 3 weeks. 27 participants completed mental health assessments at t1 and t2. Results: Adherence to the app protocol was very high with 100% for the first two weeks of use. A surprising finding was the improvement of grief symptoms at t2. Debriefing interviews revealed general qualitative categories including positive feedback, negative feedback and specific recommendations. Overall, the app was found to be feasible for use for the first two weeks and acceptable for bereaved individuals. Conclusions: This app could provide valuable data for in depth clinical assessment, may support individuals to gain greater insight into their symptoms and may have a therapeutic effect in terms of improved grief symptoms. Implications for future studies including use in larger intervention studies are discussed.