Study
New App to Help Manage Anxiety and Depression
A smartphone app shows promise in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms by changing negative thinking patterns.
Summary
In plain language
Researchers have developed a smartphone app called HabitWorks to help people manage anxiety and depression by changing how they interpret uncertain situations. This app focuses on turning negative thoughts into positive or neutral ones, helping users see the world in a less threatening way. The study found that using the app three times a week for four weeks helped improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is particularly important for seniors who may find traditional therapy time-consuming or costly. The app is designed to be quick and easy to use, making it a convenient option to consider discussing with your healthcare provider.
Details
Use the full description to understand the study design, methods, and the limits of the findings.
This study explored the effectiveness of the HabitWorks smartphone app, designed to alter negative thinking patterns linked to anxiety and depression.
Participants used the app to complete brief exercises that encouraged positive thinking about ambiguous situations. This was done three times a week for four weeks.
Results showed that the app helped reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, with at least 25% of participants continuing to use the app and reporting it as user-friendly.
While promising, the study noted that user engagement varied, highlighting the importance of personalizing the app content to improve interest and outcomes.
For seniors struggling with anxiety or depression, HabitWorks could be a helpful tool to discuss with your healthcare provider, especially if traditional therapy options are limited.
Full Study
Open the original publication for the complete methods, outcomes, and source material.
New App to Help Manage Anxiety and Depression
Published March 2026 · DOI 10.1037/ccp0000996
Opens at the publisher · external site · may require institutional access
Research Quality Score
Scored October 22, 2026 using rubric mq-1.8_2026-07-06.
Assessment
The study scored well in design and transparency due to its RCT nature and pre-registration. However, it lacked blinding and allocation concealment, and there was no conflict of interest disclosure. The study's relevance to the target population was low, as it focused on younger adults. The journal's high quality contributed positively to the score.
Category Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Study design | 10.0/10 | |
| Bias control | 6.7/10 | |
| Statistical methods | 10.0/10 | |
| Reporting completeness | 10.0/10 | |
| Conflicts & funding | 0.0/10 | |
| Replication | 0.0/10 | |
| Relevance to chosen population | 0.0/10 | |
| Journal Reliability | 9.0/10 |
Additional Notes
This RCT evaluated the HabitWorks app, a personalized smartphone-based intervention for anxiety and depression. It found improvements in interpretation bias and functional impairment but not in specific symptoms compared to a control group.
Assessed on the study's full text across 8 quality dimensions; conflict-of-interest disclosures were reviewed.
Treatments Evaluated in This Research
Review the interventions studied here and compare them against the broader treatment library.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured form of talk therapy that helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It’s one of the most widely researched and effective treatments for anxiety, depression, and stress. For older adults, CBT can improve coping skills, mood, and confidence in managing life’s challenges.
Digital Apps
Digital apps are innovative tools that support seniors in managing their health, staying connected, and maintaining independence. From medication reminders to fitness tracking and mindfulness programs, these apps promote daily wellness and peace of mind.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals manage intense emotions and improve relationships. For seniors, DBT supports calmness, resilience, and effective communication during life’s transitions.
Take the next step
Build a personalized plan using research-backed studies, conditions, and treatments.