Help on Demand, a Self-Directed Mobile App Intervention for Gambling Problems: Development and Usability Study

Area of Science:

• Digital mental health
• Behavioral science
• Mobile health interventions

Background:

• Self-directed interventions for gambling problems are limited in availability and engagement.
• Mobile applications offer a potential solution to enhance accessibility and user engagement for these interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a self-directed mobile app intervention for gambling problems.
• To conduct initial feasibility and acceptability testing of the app with Canadian adults experiencing gambling problems.

Main Methods:

• The app intervention was based on established self-directed workbook content.
• Features included daily gambling diaries, tailored activities, and psychoeducation.
• Feasibility and acceptability were assessed through surveys, focus groups, and app usage data over two weeks.

Main Results:

• The app demonstrated feasibility with short activity completion times and moderate daily diary completion rates.
• Users reported favorable reviews regarding credibility, ease of use, and potential impact.
• Feedback on specific features like daily diaries was variable, indicating a need for personalization.

Conclusions:

• The mobile app intervention met feasibility and acceptability thresholds.
• Results will guide improvements for future effectiveness testing.
• User feedback highlights the need for greater personalization in digital mental health interventions for gambling problems.