Automated Text Messaging to Support Mental Health

Our team is evaluating how an automated text messaging program that delivers tips, information, and suggestions can support adults experiencing symptoms of depression. You may be eligible for this study if you are a US citizen or live in the US, have experienced depression in the past 6 months, own a smartphone, and read and speak English. Your depression does NOT need to be professionally diagnosed for you to participate.

If enrolled, you will be asked to read and respond to text messages for a few minutes each day. You will receive automated messages for 8 weeks in total. Additionally, you will be asked to complete 5 online research surveys. The first survey will be sent to you soon after you consent to participate in the study. You will receive additional surveys at approximately 1 month, 2 months, 5 months, and 8 months. All surveys will take approximately 15-25 minutes to complete. You may be invited to complete an optional interview to share feedback after using the text messaging program for 8 weeks.

Payment for participation is available.

This study is for individuals who:

• Are US Citizens or Residents
• Are 18 years old* or older
  • *participants who reside in Nebraska must be at least 19 years old  

• Experiencing elevated depression symptoms
• Own a smartphone
• Can read and speak English fluently

How do I join?

Take our online screener today to find out if you may be eligible to participate: [HOLD FOR STUDY SCREENER URL]

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, you may also contact the research team:

Principal Investigator: Rachel Kornfield, Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University

Co-Investigator: David Mohr, Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University

Research Contact: Sarah Popowski

Email: sarah.popowski@northwestern.edu or

Call: 312-503-6576

IRB Study Number: STU00214828