Overall Score: 5/14
Research Base: 1/3
Research Funding: 0/2
Proposed Intervention: 1/3
Consumer Ratings: 2/3
Clinical Input in Development: 1/1
Software Support: 0/2
Date of Rating: March 2018
Learn more about the Credibility Rating
Engagement: 1.80 Functionality: 2.63 Aesthetics: 2.33 Information: 3.65 Subjective quality score: 1.38 Perceived impact score: 2.00 Rating date: August 2016 Rated by: Queensland University
Learn More about the User Experience Rating
Overall Score: Unacceptable
Does the app have a privacy policy?:No/Can’t Tell
Does the privacy policy describe the information storage and sharing procedures related to user entered information, OR state that user information is stored locally?:No/Can’t Tell
Does the privacy policy state that the app/server encrypts/de-identifies the entered data OR state that user information is stored locally?:No/Can’t Tell
Does the app provide the option of a pin entry or log-in process to view and enter user data?:Yes
Does the privacy policy state whether or not users can use the app WITHOUT entering identifiable information, OR state that user information is stored locally?:No/Can’t Tell
Does the privacy policy state whether or not users can delete entered information OR state that user information is stored locally?:No/Can’t Tell
Does the privacy policy state whether or not users can edit entered information OR state that user information is stored locally?:No/Can’t Tell
Learn more about the Transparency Rating
DBSA Wellness Tracker is a web-based program and multi-platform app designed specifically for users with mood disorders. Created by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), a peer support network in the United States, it has users rate and track a variety of factors that contribute to wellness and recovery. The app breaks these factors down into categories: Overall Mood, Well-Being, Mood Symptoms, Lifestyle (behaviors such as sleep and hygiene), Medications and Side Effects, and Health and Exercise. Scores in each of these categories are recorded and compiled into monthly reports that can be downloaded and shared with providers or other members in users’ support networks. This information can be helpful in identifying triggers and patterns that contribute to problems in users’ everyday lives, and in improving treatment planning with providers.
Available For: Requires iOS 6.0 or later
Developer: Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Type of Treatment: Symptom Tracking/Self-Monitoring
Targeted Conditions: Mood Disorders
Target Audience: Not Specified
Designed to be used in conjunction with a healthcare professional: No, but recommended
Languages Available: English, German, Northern Sami, and Spanish
Cost: Free
Get it on: iTunes, Online
A feasibility case-study on the use of DBSA Wellness Tracker for the management of Bipolar Disorder was presented at the 17th Annual Conference of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. There has been no other research on this app to-date.
We review apps against rating criteria developed by experts in the field. Some of those criteria are:
We look at the research supporting the technology and the credibility of the development process.
We review privacy policies to see if key pieces of information about what happens with entered data are addressed.
We explore how fun, functional, easy-to-use, engaging, and interesting the technology is.
A professional in a relevant field downloads and uses the technology and writes a narrative review, highlighting pros & cons and some recommendations for use.
