iWellness Study to Evaluate a Mental Health App for Students

Participants in the intervention arm will be able to log into the Wysa app at any time of day. They can chat with the AI-based bot, Wysa, or choose to complete different self-care exercises. These exercises are grouped into tool packs, which include dealing with relationships, overcoming loneliness, managing mood, among many others. Users can engage in simple, therapeutic exercises including mindfulness and cognitive re-structuring for negative thinking.

Participants in the control arm will be given instructions on how to download and utilize the Harvard College App. Students assigned to this app receive instructions on how to utilize the app to navigate resources on campus to support their mental health including professional and peer support groups and how to make an appointment at the Counseling and Mental Health Services. Participants cannot send messages or share any information through the app.