“SFK MindCare“ app for people with addiction disorders

The “SFK MindCare“ app trains self-awareness in the event of an addiction disorder and shows ways to self-regulate. The app was created by the Suchtfachklinik of Zurich in collaboration with BFH.

Factsheet

Schools involved School of Engineering and Computer Science
Institute(s) Institute for Patient-centered Digital Health (PCDH)
Research unit(s) PCDH / AI for Health
Funding organisation Others
Duration (planned) 21.01.2019 - 28.02.2025
Head of project Prof. Dr. Kerstin Denecke
Partner Suchtfachklinik Zürich
Keywords Digital health, healthtech, health app, addictive diseases

Situation

In order to provide virtual support for people with an addiction, the Suchtfachklinik in Zurich has developed the “SFK MindCare” app in collaboration with Bern University of Applied Sciences BFH. The aim of the app is to train users’ self-awareness and show them strategies to self-regulate. The app is primarily aimed at patients of the Suchtfachklinik Zurich. However, it is useful for all those affected by an addiction disorder, even if they are not being treated there. The app is not intended to replace personal care and individual treatment, but to complement it.

Course of action

The person-centered development of the app took place in close cooperation with psychologists and patients. It integrates methods of cognitive behavioural therapy that are used in non-digital settings.

Result

The “SFK MindCare” app is free of charge and ad-free. It offers numerous tools and functions to support users in managing substance cravings. Cravings and the urge to consume can be recorded, as can the patients tension and specific emotions. Diary entries can be used to track developments and progress during treatment. The app also offers valuable tips and exercises for dealing with cravings and stress, and supportive instructions on mindfulness exercises and meditation. The data that patients generate with the app is encrypted and stored on the MIDATA platform.