Originally published in JMIR Formative Research, 2023

Efficacy of Text-Based Mental Health Coaching App in Improving the Symptoms of Stress, Anxiety and Depression: Randomised Controlled Trial

A peer-reviewed article published in JMIR Formative Research that describes a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted by the International Medical University (IMU) in Malaysia that demonstrates the significant efficacy of the ThoughtFullChat app in alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. The study encompassed 392 participants, including trainee physicians, students, faculty members, and corporate staff, who were divided into intervention and control groups.

Over a 3-month period, the intervention group engaged with ThoughtFull App (formally known as ThoughtFullChat), which offers one-on-one, asynchronous, text-based coaching with certified mental health professionals, complemented by self-guided tools.

Key Findings

Reduction in Depression and Anxiety: Participants utilizing ThoughtFullChat experienced a significant decrease in depression (P=.02) and anxiety (P=.002) scores compared to the control group.
Enhanced Outcomes for Corporate Staff: Corporate staff members showed notable improvements across all measured areas—depression (P=.006), anxiety (P=.002), and stress (P=.005).
Gender-Specific Benefits: Female participants reported significant reductions in both depression (P=.02) and anxiety (P<.001) symptoms

Results

This study provides evidence that the ThoughtFull mobile app is a discreet, cost-effective digital solution for mental health support, that is effective in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. It also supports the notion that ThoughtFull's methodology of connecting users to mental health professionals directly, alongside asynchronous text-based approach and self-serve tools are important contributions to improving mental health outcomes.

Authors

Yee Siew Lim, MBBS; Jia Hui Quek, MBBS; Xiu Wei Ching, MBBS; Dominic Tao Ran Lim, MBBS; Kean Ghee Lim, MBChB; Chandramani Thuraisingham, MBBS, DRM, PDOH; Parikial Philip George†, MBBS, AM, MMed

(JMIR Form Res 2023;7:e46458) doi: 10.2196/46458

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