Using a Mobile Application in the Management of Anger Problems Among Veterans: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Technology
• Digital Therapeutics
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Traditional anger management programs can be enhanced with digital tools.
• Veterans often face challenges with anger and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Mobile applications offer accessible platforms for therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the usability and feasibility of the RELAX mobile application.
• To evaluate the RELAX app as an adjunct to traditional anger management for Veterans.
• To gather feedback on the acceptability and functionality of the RELAX app.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility pilot study involving four Veterans undergoing anger management treatment.
• Pre- and post-treatment assessments of anger, PTSD, depression, and interpersonal functioning.
• Collection of qualitative data on user experience and therapist feedback.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in anger, PTSD, and depression symptoms post-treatment.
• Improvements in interpersonal functioning observed among participants.
• Veterans reported the RELAX app as helpful and appreciated its features.

Conclusions:

• The RELAX mobile application is a feasible and acceptable adjunct to traditional anger management for Veterans.
• Digital tools like the RELAX app show promise in improving mental health outcomes.
• Further research into app-based interventions for Veterans is warranted.