Cell Phone-Based Mental Health Treatment for Homeless Youth

A recent study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research examined the feasibility of delivering mental health services to RHY via mobile phone. Thirty-five young adults ages 18-24 in Chicago shelters were given activated cell phones, taught to use mental health apps, and invited to engage in phone therapy sessions and text chats with clinicians. Results showed the majority followed through with mobile therapy and texting interactions, which they reported were satisfying and they would recommend to peers. Though no significant clinical improvements were found in the small sample, researchers concluded that smartphone-based therapeutic services could be successfully used by young people experiencing homelessness.

Read the entire study here: https://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/7/e12347/