Can a phone app boost student mental health? new study puts JoyPop to the test

NCT ID NCT06154369

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Lakehead University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a mobile app called JoyPop can help post-secondary students aged 18-25 better manage their emotions, stress, and anxiety. 160 students were randomly assigned to use the app twice daily for 4 weeks or to receive no intervention. Researchers measured changes in emotion regulation, distress, and well-being. The goal is to see if a simple app can support mental health when traditional services are hard to access.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: JoyPop mobile app (behavioural intervention)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer students a simple, free tool to better handle stress and emotions without needing therapy or medication.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed trial with 160 students, so results may not apply to everyone. The app only works on iOS devices, and benefits might be modest.

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

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Depression depressive disorder Emotional Regulation Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY DEPRESSION EMOTION REGULATION STRESS WELL-BEING, PSYCHOLOGICAL

Contacts and locations

Locations

Lakehead University

Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B5E1, Canada

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