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Mobile and web-based wellness tools can improve the mental health of military personnel who have served in the global war on terror and can benefit their partners, as well.
A 16-week study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research reveals a mobile app, web video and audio tools significantly reduced a range of ailments, from post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD) to depression and pain, and boosted lifestyle factors such as sleep. Improvements also were seen in resilience and self-compassion.
“Both veterans and partners were able to learn and make sustained use of a range of wellness practices,” the study authors said, noting that mHealth tools provide an accessible, low-cost approach for tackling multiple symptoms among post-9/11 veterans and their partners.
The findings align with previous studies regarding the use of mobile health tools for veterans and military personnel, including one targeting centrally assisted telecare to treat PTSD that led to improvements over usual care. Last month, FierceMobileHealthcare reported on the development of a wearable device aimed at tracking activity and behavior that could be useful for monitoring the health of soldiers.
This latest research involved 160 veterans and partners across the U.S. who underwent standardized tests and assessments before, during and after using the designated health tools. Such tools, according to the authors, present an opportunity to provide faster, cheaper care for veterans dealing with physical, psychological and spiritual issues.
“Innovative approaches are needed that reach veterans and their family members with strategies they can employ over time in their daily lives to promote improved adjustment and well-being,” the researchers said.