An mHealth Stress Management Intervention for Latino Millennial Caregivers: Pilot Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial.

In 30 seconds

This pilot feasibility randomized controlled trial evaluated a culturally tailored, automated mobile intervention for stress management and emotional regulation among Latino millennial caregivers in the United States. Thirty participants were randomized to a 4-week program of daily mindfulness and journaling or a waitlist control; no efficacy testing was conducted. Enrollment was completed in 12 weeks, and retention was 70% (21/30). Adherence was higher for journaling than mindfulness: 60% (6/10) completed a daily journal activity, compared with 30% (3/10) completing a daily mindfulness activity. Preliminary outcome patterns varied, so the study does not establish intervention effectiveness.

Key findings

• Retention was 70% (21/30); enrollment of 30 participants was completed in 12 weeks.
• Daily activity completion was 60% (6/10) for journaling and 30% (3/10) for mindfulness.
• In the intervention group, median caregiver burden decreased from 20 (IQR 15-27.25) to 15 (IQR 10.50-28.75), while median stress increased from 19.50 (IQR 12-26.75) to 21 (IQR 8.75-22.75).
• Positive affect, well-being, and informational support increased in both groups; no efficacy testing was conducted.

Why it matters

The study addresses the feasibility of delivering stress-management support to caregivers who may face time constraints and multiple demands. Its findings highlight that engagement can differ between intervention components, with journaling more frequently completed than mindfulness. These implementation observations can inform refinement of culturally tailored digital programs, while the preliminary outcome patterns should not be interpreted as evidence of benefit.

What to keep in mind

This was a small pilot with 70% retention, and outcome analyses included participants completing week 6 data collection (n=21). No efficacy testing was conducted.