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A Mobile Application to Improve Mental Health and Reduce Suicidal Ideation Among Adolescents: A Pilot Mixed-Methods
Mundakir1, Sukodiono2, M Hanifuddin Hakim3
1Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia.
Background:
Adolescent suicidal ideation is a critical public health issue, with limited support options in low-resource settings.
Purpose:
This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability, usability, and preliminary effects of Emo-Safe, an Android-based application designed to enhance emotional regulation and reduce suicidal ideation among adolescents.
Methodology:
This study utilized a sequential, explanatory mixed-methods approach, consisting of quantitative followed by qualitative methods. Sixty students, aged 15-18, participated in the study, divided into an intervention group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30) for 4 weeks. Core app features included daily mood tracking, reflective journaling with AI-assisted reframing guided by cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, breathing exercises, personalized insights, and an AI "friend" for encouragement. Outcomes measured were the Indonesian Depression Anxiety Stress Scales for Youth (IDASS-Y) and the Suicidal Ideation Scale (SIS).
Result:
Results indicated that the intervention group had significantly lower post-test IDASS-Y scores (28.43 vs. 33.17; p = 0.037) and reduced stress levels (8.83 vs. 12.37; p = 0.001). The SIS also favored the intervention group (14.83 vs. 21.70; p < 0.001). Acceptability was high (mean rating 4.24/5) with positive feedback on material clarity and facilitator effectiveness, along with suggestions for improvements.
Conclusions:
Findings demonstrate the acceptability and usability of Emo-Safe, alongside promising short-term reductions in stress and suicidal ideation. However, further systematic evaluation of broader feasibility indicators, such as recruitment and long-term engagement, is needed in future trials.
