Can a phone app ease PTSD? large study puts it to the test.
NCT ID NCT04888169
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a smartphone app that retrains attention can help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Over 1,300 adults with PTSD symptoms used one of four app versions for two weeks. Researchers measured changes in PTSD symptoms right after training and again eight weeks later. The goal was to see if attention bias modification could be a simple, remote treatment option.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Attention bias modification via smartphone app
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a convenient, app-based way to reduce PTSD symptoms without medication or in-person therapy.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study testing different training approaches, so it may not show clear benefits. The effect may be small or not last long-term.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Tommy Atwater
San Francisco, California, 94143, United States