Title : Mixed-methods research on optimizing behavioral health devices for relapse prevention
Abstract:
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States. Despite growing evidence supporting interventions like Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) and mobile behavioral therapies, access to sustainable, emotionally supportive tools remains limited, especially outside of clinical settings. Addressing this gap, our team developed ENS?, a novel behavioral health device and mobile application designed to help individuals manage compulsive behaviors and substance use through personalized, emotionally resonant interventions. ENS? combines behavioral nudges with advanced AI and focusing-based somatic techniques. One unique feature allows users to engage with the recorded voices of loved ones, offering grounding support during high-risk moments. The system incorporates both passive data tracking and active journaling prompts to support daily behavior regulation, emotional reflection, and connection. This presentation describes our ongoing mixed-methods usability study evaluating the effectiveness, accessibility, and emotional resonance of the ENS? system. Our study includes qualitative interviews, behavioral tracking, and survey-based assessment with individuals managing SUD and related compulsive behaviors (e.g., binge eating). Preliminary feedback highlights increased emotional comfort, enhanced self-regulation, and meaningful user-device interaction in naturalistic environments. Findings from this study will inform future iterations of ENS? and its broader integration into recovery ecosystems, digital mental health platforms, and clinical care pathways.
