Actively Recruiting
Building Healthy Eating and Self-Esteem Together for University Students: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of an mHealth Intervention for Binge-Spectrum Disorders
Led by University of Kansas · Updated on 2026-01-14
74
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University of Kansas
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Eating disorders, especially binge-spectrum disorders, have become a serious concern on college campuses, with a significant rise in cases since the COVID-19 pandemic. This research aims to evaluate a mobile health guided self-help program called Building Healthy Eating and Self-Esteem Together for University Students (BEST-U) compared to present-centered therapy (PCT) in university students with binge eating disorders. The study will explore how these treatments reduce binge eating and improve related symptoms, focusing on mechanisms like dietary restraint and weight/shape concerns. The study compares two behavioral interventions: the BEST-U program, which delivers 15 brief modules via a smartphone app over 12 weeks combined with weekly 25-30 minute coaching sessions, and PCT, a therapy focusing on coping with daily life stressors and improving interpersonal connections. BEST-U includes evidence-based skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, while PCT serves as a comparator addressing emotional triggers for binge eating. Participants receive these treatments in a randomized, single-blind design. Participants will be university students aged 18 to 65 with binge-spectrum eating disorders who have access to a smartphone. They will be assessed through surveys measuring binge eating and eating disorder symptoms at baseline, weekly during the 12-week intervention, and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Additional assessments will track impairment, anxiety, depression, and mood symptoms. The study also explores factors influencing response to treatment and barriers to implementing BEST-U across campuses, with the total participation lasting up to six months after treatment.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Building Healthy Eating and Self-Esteem Together for University Students
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age 18 years or older
- Currently enrolled as a student at the University of Kansas
- Diagnosis of bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, or sub-threshold forms of these disorders
- Access to a smartphone
- No uncorrected vision problems interfering with participation
- Stable dose of psychotropic medications for at least four weeks if applicable
- Able to read and speak fluent English
You will not qualify if you...
- Moderate to severe suicidal thoughts with active intent
- Significant psychiatric conditions that could interfere with treatment (e.g., substance-use disorder, psychosis)
- Medical conditions or medications that interfere with treatment (e.g., Type 1 diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, nursing, corticosteroid use)
- Lab abnormalities indicating medical instability or other medical problems preventing outpatient care
- Currently receiving therapy for an eating disorder
- Positive screen for anorexia nervosa, atypical anorexia nervosa, low body weight (BMI below 19.5), or avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person or remote)
Duration - 12 weeks
Participants receive a 12-week behavioral intervention consisting of weekly modules delivered via a smartphone app paired with weekly 25-30 minute telehealth coaching sessions. The treatment focuses on reducing binge eating and related symptoms through cognitive-behavioral strategies or present-centered therapy.
Weekly coaching sessions via telehealth and daily app engagement
Duration - 3 to 6 months post-treatment
Participants are monitored to assess the maintenance of treatment effects, including binge eating and eating disorder symptoms, at 3 and 6 months after the intervention ends.
2 visits (remote or in-person) at 3 and 6 months
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Kansas, Wakarusa Research Facility
Lawrence, Kansas, United States, 66045
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
K
Kelsie Forbush, PhD
K
Kara Christensen-Pacella Assistant Professor, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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