Testing a Self-Management App for Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress

Renew is a behavioral health self-management app/too that focuses on three core activities: 1) in vivo exposure (to help participants approach safe situations they have been avoiding that they want to feel comfortable in), 2) expressive writing (to help participants emotionally process trauma memories), and 3) Self-Care exercises (designed to promote behavioral activation, social connectedness and relaxation; includes a breathing relaxation tool). Users have access to psychoeducation via a whiteboard video and short texts as well as Motivation content (quotes, videos, images, and songs) related to confronting challenges and overcoming fears. For each exercise that is completed, the user earns points that are connected to levels and visually reinforcing images (i.e., a growing tree).