MindTrails App for Anxiety in Neurodegenerative Movement Disorders

This trial tests an app called MindTrails-Movement to determine if it can reduce anxiety in people with Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases. The app employs cognitive bias modification for interpretation (CBM-I) to alter how users interpret events, potentially reducing anxiety. Participants will engage with the app in short, daily sessions over six weeks, while another group will wait and only access the app's support resources. This trial suits individuals diagnosed with Huntington's or Parkinson's disease who experience anxiety. As an unphased trial, it provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance anxiety management for these conditions.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that the MindTrails-Movement app is being tested to help reduce anxiety in people with Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases. Previous studies suggest that web-based tools can change thought patterns in this group. However, specific information on the app's safety remains limited.

The trial's "Not Applicable" phase designation indicates that the app is neither a drug nor a typical medical device, so it lacks the same safety data as those treatments. As a digital tool, it generally poses fewer safety concerns than drugs. Yet, without more specific safety results, determining how well people tolerate it is challenging.

Researchers are excited about the MindTrails-Movement app for anxiety in neurodegenerative movement disorders because it offers a unique approach through Cognitive Bias Modification for Interpretation (CBM-I) training. Unlike standard treatments for anxiety, which often include medications like SSRIs or therapy, this app provides a non-pharmacological, digital intervention that users can access daily at their convenience. The app's design allows it to target specific cognitive biases that contribute to anxiety, offering a personalized experience that can be seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of individuals with Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases. This innovative delivery method could potentially enhance accessibility and adherence to treatment, providing a promising complementary option to traditional therapies.

Research has shown that the MindTrails-Movement app, available to participants in this trial, may help reduce anxiety in individuals with Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases. The app employs a method called cognitive bias modification for interpretation (CBM-I) to alter how users perceive situations, reducing anxiety. Early studies suggest that the app can decrease anxiety symptoms by training users to view everyday events more positively. Although further research is necessary, initial results are promising for managing anxiety related to these conditions.¹²⁴⁵⁶