New app helps people with mental illness shed pounds

NCT ID NCT04560335

Completed Disease control Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a weight-loss program called CoachToFit for 257 veterans with serious mental illness (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder) who were obese. Participants used a smartphone app, an activity tracker, and a Bluetooth scale, and worked with a peer coach. The goal was to see if this approach could help them lose weight and improve fitness.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: CoachToFit app, activity tracker, and Bluetooth scale
What this could lead to: If successful, this program could offer a practical, low-cost way to help people with serious mental illness lose weight and improve their health.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study, but results may not apply to all groups. Weight loss can be hard to maintain long-term, and the program requires a smartphone and motivation.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for BIPOLAR DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder major depressive disorder Motor Activity psychiatric disorder schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia Weight Loss

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SERIOUS MENTAL ILLNESS

Contacts and locations

Locations

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System University Drive Division, Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15240, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.