The Effectiveness of a Mobile Phone–Based Physical Activity Program for Treating Depression, Stress, Psychological Well-Being, and Quality of Life Among Adults: Quantitative Study (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND Physical activity is known to be an effective evidence-based treatment for depression. However, people generally have difficulties participating in physical activity due to limitations OBJECTIVE In this study, we attempted to investigate the effectiveness of a mobile-based physical activity program in terms of various health indicators, namely, depression, perceived stress, psychological well-being, and quality of life. in time and accessibility. METHODS A total of 61 adults aged 18-65 years participated in the study: 36 were assigned to the treatment group and 25 to the waitlist group. The proposed variables were evaluated through self-report questionnaires before and after the treatment. The treatment group used the program about three times per week at home, and each session took about 30 minutes. RESULTS The treatment group exhibited significant improvements in depression and perceived stress after the program, whereas the waitlist group exhibited no significant changes after treatment. CONCLUSIONS This study provided experimental evidence that mobile-based physical activity program affects depressive symptoms and perceived stress significantly. It is expected that mobile-based physical activity programs can be cost-effective and implemented at home for depression and perceived stress. CLINICALTRIAL HYUIRB-202203-010-1