STEPS - Stress Training and Engagement Via Phone-Based Systems

This study will evaluate engagement, usability, and psychological outcomes associated with participation in smartphone-based stress management or mindfulness training program among young adults. The study will compare multiple versions of a digital training program delivered through the Equa mobile application.

Participants will be individually randomized to one of several app-based training programs using a stratified randomization procedure. Each program consists of guided daily lessons completed over a 14-day period and is designed to support stress management and well-being through structured skill development activities.

Primary objectives include evaluating user satisfaction and usability of the digital platform and assessing changes in mindfulness-related skills and mental distress over time.

Participants will:

Complete surveys assessing demographics and psychological well-being at baseline, post-intervention, and one-month follow-up.

Complete a 14-day smartphone-delivered training program consisting of guided lessons while physiological data are collected using wearable sensors.

Some participants may receive additional in-app features designed to support personalized learning or engagement with training lessons.

Some participants will complete brief questionnaires before and after selected lessons to assess short-term changes associated with lesson participation.