Improving the wellbeing of unpaid carers using an app

Exploring unpaid carers’ experiences of engaging with an app-based self-compassion intervention

Caring for a loved one with MND can be both rewarding and challenging. The researchers would like to explore a new way to support the wellbeing of caregivers, using the principles of self-compassion. This means being aware of your distress and committing to respond to it in a helpful way. Building capacity for self-compassion can help people to cope better with challenges and improve their wellbeing.

The researchers would like to investigate the use of The Self-Compassion App. The app contains 28 short sessions (typically a few minutes of recorded content followed by a short exercise). Previous studies have shown that the app has benefit for various people, but no studies so far have focused on unpaid carers. The researchers would like carers to test the app, before taking part in an interview to discuss their experiences. 

How will this study help people with and affected by MND now and/or in the future?

The study will explore if people caring for someone with MND find app-based, compassion-focussed exercises feasible and helpful. The study could inform future research to assess the effectiveness of these interventions, and could lead to improved wellbeing for people caring for someone with MND.