Flourish App for Student Well-Being

This trial aims to explore how a mobile app, called Flourish, can improve student well-being. It will test whether using the app alone or with a friend enhances feelings of happiness and reduces loneliness more effectively than using existing school resources. Participants will divide into three groups: one using the app, one using the app with a buddy, and one continuing with current resources. Students attending a participating school who can consent to join are a good fit for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research focused on enhancing student well-being.

The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications, so it's best to check with the trial organizers or your doctor.

Research has shown that the Flourish app is safe and easy for users to handle. Tested in several studies, it aims to improve mental health and well-being. These studies have not identified any serious side effects, indicating that users generally do not experience harm while using the app. The app helps reduce stress and boost mood, and it has proven effective in supporting student mental health.

Using the Flourish app with a buddy or friend can enhance these positive effects. This buddy system does not compromise the app's safety, as it simply involves using the app together with someone else. Both the solo and buddy versions are easy to use and focus on well-being without causing harm.

Researchers are excited about the Flourish app as it aims to boost student well-being using a digital approach. Unlike traditional therapy or counseling sessions, the Flourish app provides a convenient, self-guided experience that students can access anywhere, anytime. This app encourages regular engagement with well-being practices, and one version even incorporates social support by allowing participants to invite a buddy to join them. This peer connection aspect is unique and could enhance motivation and accountability, potentially leading to better mental health outcomes.

Studies have shown that the Flourish app can reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, boost mood, and lower stress. Research indicates that the app effectively improves mental health and well-being through its AI companion, "Sunnie." Initial findings suggest that using the app may also reduce feelings of loneliness. In this trial, participants in the "Flourish app condition" will use the app independently, while those in the "Flourish app with buddies condition" will use it alongside a friend. This approach may offer additional benefits, such as better stress management and emotional health. Overall, the app is recognized as a helpful tool for building mental health resilience.¹⁴⁶⁷⁸