Can self-esteem be improved using short daily training on mobile applications? Examining real world data of GG Self-esteem users

ABSTRACT

Objective

Using real world data, we examined the associations between self‐esteem ratings and the short, daily use of a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)‐based mobile application targeting self‐esteem related beliefs. The effects of using this application on mood ratings were also assessed.

Method

Real world data of GG Self‐esteem users were collected from January 2019 until August 2019. Participants’ self‐esteem and mood scores were evaluated at three‐time points corresponding to Levels 1, 20 and 46 of the mobile application.

Results

Significant increases in self‐esteem ratings were found across all three‐time points. Increased mood ratings were only found at Level 20, compared to baseline. Dropout rates across assessment points were associated with younger age, and males showed significantly higher self‐esteem scores than women at baseline and the second assessment point.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with previous controlled trials indicating that using CBT‐based mHealth applications targeting maladaptive beliefs may be useful for increasing user's wellness and reducing distress.

KEY POINTS

(1) App use was associated with increased self‐esteem and mood.

(2) The higher the level participants used the app the more their self‐esteem increased.

(3) Real world data is consistent with findings from previous controlled studies.

KEYWORDS:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy
• digital mental health
• maladaptive beliefs
• mobile apps
• real world settings
• self‐esteem