Evaluating the Stappvoorstap Mobile App to Reduce Stress for Adults Waiting for Mental Healthcare in the Netherlands

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of Stappvoorstap, a mobile self-management app designed for adults on mental health waiting lists in the Netherlands. The app aims to help users monitor their daily stress, recognize personal stress patterns, and offers coping strategies, relaxation exercises, and supportive resources. The study uses a multiple baseline single-case experimental design to see if the app can reduce stress and improve wellbeing before mental healthcare treatment begins. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups with different baseline periods lasting 3, 4, or 5 weeks, followed by 4 weeks of using the Stappvoorstap app and then 3 weeks of follow-up. During the study, the app measures stress 2-4 times daily through short questionnaires and provides real-time coping suggestions, mindfulness exercises, informational articles, and personal stories. The intervention is delivered remotely via the mobile app, allowing participation from any location. Throughout the study, participants complete weekly questionnaires measuring perceived stress, coping self-efficacy, and quality of life for 10 to 12 weeks depending on group assignment. Researchers monitor changes in these outcomes to assess the apps impact. The study includes group-level and individual case analyses using mixed-effects modeling and effect size measures. Participation is fully remote and duration varies by assigned group.

Effectiveness of a Waitlist App "Stappvoorstap" During Mental Healthcare Waiting Times