Perceived Helpfulness of a Text Messaging Intervention for Depression in First-Year College Students

This study evaluated a six-week text messaging intervention for first-year college students with mild-to-moderate depression in a randomized controlled trial (N=78). Participants were randomized 2:1 weekly and 50:50 daily to receive messages. Helpful messages correlated with lower depression scores. Students valued motivation but suggested improving personalization, timing, and interactivity.