SmileApp: The Design and Evaluation of an mHealth App for Stress Reduction Through Artificial Intelligence and Persuasive Technology

Mobile health apps are becoming popular and capable of addressing a wide range of health-related issues including stress. In this study, we designed, developed, and evaluated an mHealth application called SmileApp to promote positive mood as a means of reducing stress. The design of SmileApp is grounded in psychological theories and integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and persuasive technology (PT). To evaluate SmileApp, we conducted a two-week in-the-wild study involving 72 participants. This was followed by an optional semi-structured interview with 23 participants. Quantitative results suggest that SmileApp is usable, and the use of the features can convince users to smile more frequently, as well as feel a sense of companionship and connectedness. Furthermore, qualitative results suggest that SmileApp was a unique design to help users alleviate stress. These results offer valuable insights into innovative approaches for designing mHealth applications that promote positive mood. Moreover, the findings underscore the importance of utilizing technology to support emotional wellbeing. We present a novel approach to promote desired behaviors by motivating users to read supportive messages and play mobile games by smiling.