Uptake, Adherence, and Attrition in Clinical Trials of Depression and Anxiety Apps

What are the expected rates of uptake, attrition, and adherence in randomized clinical trials of mental health apps for depression and anxiety?This systematic review and meta-analysis of 79 randomized trials found high rates of app uptake (94%) and moderate adherence (62%) among participants with depression or anxiety. Posttest attrition averaged 17%, and follow-up attrition was 27%.These findings highlight the need to optimize app design and trial protocols to improve engagement and reduce attrition in digital interventions for depression and anxiety.

Corresponding Author: Jake Linardon, PhD, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Rd, Waurn Ponds VIC 3216, Australia (jake.linardon@deakin.edu.au).

Link to the article in your story

We encourage you to link out to this article in your story using the link below. It includes an access token that will give free access to the article for your readers up to one year after publication. (The link will be live after the article publishes and embargo is lifted.)

Please see the article for additional information, including full author list, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.

Need more information? Contact us.