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Help on Demand, a Self-Directed Mobile App Intervention for Gambling Problems: Development and Usability Study
Brad W Brazeau1, John A Cunningham2,3,4, David C Hodgins1
1Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr NW, Calgary, AB, T2N1N4, Canada, 1 403-210-9500.
Background:
Compared with other mental health problems, self-directed interventions for gambling problems lack in quantity, accessibility, and in some cases, evidence base. Moreover, engagement with these interventions remains modest. Mobile apps may be a viable format to deliver self-directed interventions that enhance user engagement.
Objective:
The aims of this study were to develop a self-directed mobile app intervention for gambling problems and to conduct initial feasibility and acceptability testing with a small sample of Canadian adults with past or present gambling problems (n=30).
Methods:
Participants were invited via email from a list of people who had previously volunteered in similar research in our laboratory. Theory and content of the mobile app intervention were primarily based on a self-directed workbook that has been evaluated in paperback and static web-based formats. The current app prototype included daily gambling diaries, recommended activities based on diary responses, and psychoeducation. It was available for 2 weeks, after which users provided feedback via surveys (n=30) and a virtual focus group (n=8). Quantitative and qualitative feedback, as well as app usage data, were analyzed to provide descriptive statistics and summaries.
Results:
Regarding feasibility, median completion time for activities ranged from 48 (IQR 35-90) to 137 (IQR 93-328) seconds. Daily diary completion rate was 51%. One-third of activities were accessed via prompt, and two-thirds on demand. Many participants repeated at least 1 activity, and all activities were repeated by at least 1 participant. Results also indicated favorable user reviews, particularly regarding the app's credibility, ease of use, and potential impact. The feedback on some app features was highly variable, such as the perceived utility of daily diaries. Specific recommendations for improvement were provided, such as the inclusion of information on concurrent substance use and more interactive psychoeducation.
Conclusions:
Overall, the app met or exceeded heuristic thresholds for feasibility and acceptability testing. These results will inform improvements and subsequent effectiveness testing. The variability in user feedback underscores the demand for further personalization.
