Mobile Stress Management Program for African American Women

Each weekly module will consist of a cognitive component and a relaxation component. The cognitive component during the first 3 weeks will educate users about the Transactional Model of Stress, that discrimination is a type of stressor, and the impact of stress on health. Building on this information, users will then learn how to match coping responses to the changeability of stressors during weeks 4 and 5. The cognitive component will conclude by focusing on the four most common coping strategies used by African American women in response to stress. Modules 2 through 4 will teach progressive muscle relaxation through a series of tension and relaxation cycles. Modules 5 through 8 will train users in diaphragmatic breathing. Finally, users will be trained in three types of mindfulness mediations.

The introductory course defines stress, describes the different sources of stress, and the influence of personality on stress. The coping module includes training in cognitive coping skills, guided imagery, progressive relaxation, autogenic training, and the importance of physical activity to manage stress. All lessons include course assessments. During the intervention period, controls will receive weekly text messages encouraging completion of material.