Usability and feasibility of a cognitive-behavioral mobile app for ADHD in adults

Abstract

Objective Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has growing evidence of efficacy for Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults. Mobile health apps are promising tools for delivering scalable CBT. In a 7-week open study of Inflow, a CBT-based mobile app, we assessed usability and feasibility to prepare for a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Method 240 adults recruited online completed baseline and usability assessments at 2 (n = 114), 4 (n = 97) and after 7 weeks (n = 95) of Inflow use. 93 participants self-reported ADHD symptoms and impairment at baseline and 7 weeks. Results Participants rated Inflow’s usability favorably, used the app a median of 3.86 times per week, and a majority of those using the app for 7 weeks self-reported decreases in ADHD symptoms and impairment. Conclusion Inflow demonstrated usability and feasibility among users. An RCT will determine whether Inflow is associated with improvement among more rigorously assessed users and beyond non-specific factors.