Feasibility study of an app-based intervention to improve wellbeing
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A feasibility study assessing a green prescription version of a novel app-based intervention to improve wellbeing in patients with common mental health problems.
IRAS ID
222700
Contact name
Anna Jorgensen
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Derby
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 29 days
Research summary
Why?
The aim of our study is to understand how different aspects of city living affect wellbeing. We hope that the results from the study will inform town planners and policy makers about how city spaces can be designed for better health and wellbeing of residents.
What?
This study will test the use of a new intervention amongst adults with common mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety. The intervention will be a smartphone app which will prompt users twice a day to notice and record the good things about green spaces or built spaces around Sheffield. Previous research has shown that engaging with the natural environment can benefit health and mental wellbeing (e.g. Guite et al 2006; MacKerron & Mourato, 2013).
Who?
Adults over 18 years old, who have a mild to moderate common mental health problem (such as depression or anxiety), and who own a smartphone will be able to participate.
Where?
Participants will use the app as part of their day to day routine as they travel around Sheffield and the surrounding area. The app will prompt them to notice green or built spaces around them.
How?
The app will be delivered as a ‘green prescription’ which means that health professionals will tell their patients about the intervention. If patients choose to take part, they will be allocated at random to either noticing the good things about green spaces or the good things about built spaces. This is to control for whether noticing green space or noticing other aspects of city life affects health and wellbeing. Patients will complete questionnaires about health, mental wellbeing and their feelings about nature, before, after and 3 months after using the app for one month.REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/WM/0128
Date of REC Opinion
3 May 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion