A Gamified Mental Health App for Ugandan Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Leung Tiffany, Coristine Andrew, Regalado Francisco, R Pozuelo Julia, Nabulumba Christine, Sikoti Doreen, Davis Meghan, Gumikiriza-Onoria Joy Louise, Kinyanda Eugene, Moffett Bianca, van Heerden Alastair, O'Mahen Heather A, Craske Michelle, Sulaiman Munshi, Stein Alan
Primary Institution: Department of Psychiatry University of Oxford
Hypothesis
The study aimed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of the Kuamsha program as a way to promote mental health among adolescents in Uganda.
Conclusion
The Kuamsha program is a feasible and acceptable digital mental health intervention for adolescents in Uganda.
Supporting Evidence
- Trial retention rates exceeded 90%.
- Treatment adherence was ≥80%.
- Participants reported high acceptability levels in interviews.
Takeaway
The Kuamsha app helps teenagers in Uganda with their mental health by making it fun and easy to use, and many liked it so much that they kept using it even after the study ended.
Methodology
A 3-month pre-post single-arm trial was conducted with adolescents aged 15-19 years, evaluating feasibility and acceptability through mixed methods.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the lack of a control group.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was not powered to detect significant treatment effects.
Participant Demographics
Adolescents aged 15-19 years, with a mean age of 17.58 years; 48% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P=.16 for depressive symptoms, P=.90 for emotional well-being, P=.72 for anxiety symptoms.
Confidence Interval
95% CI –0.60 to 3.42 for depressive symptoms.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website