"Recovery 4 US" - A Photovoice-based Social Media Program

This study is a randomized trial evaluating "Recovery 4 US", a social media program aimed at
the enhancement of community participation and overall recovery of individuals with
psychiatric disabilities.This innovative e-mental health program integrates Internet and
mobile technologies and is designed to be a self-sustaining recovery-oriented virtual
community for individuals living with a disabling mental illness based on the principles of
Photovoice.

The "Recovery 4 US" program which includes a mobile phone application and a password
protected website, has three main components: 1) receipt of daily hope-inspiring message,
paired with a corresponding visual image; 2) creation and viewing of recovery-oriented
Photovoice works; and 3) opportunity to attend community events initiated by members of the
"Recovery 4 US" community.

The benefits of the "Recovery 4 US" program will be evaluated through a randomized trial with
n=60 participants. The study will take place at the Boston University Center for Psychiatric
Rehabilitation. Participants will be randomized to the experimental group (provided with a
smartphone and access to "Recovery 4 US" application and website) or the control group
(provided with a smartphone but without access to the "Recovery 4 US" app or website). We
anticipate participation in the program will be associated with reduced loneliness, increased
hopefulness, community participation, and overall recovery.

The recruitment goal for this study was amended to n=70.

Inclusion Criteria:

- are 18 or older

- have been recipients of services at the BU CPR Recovery Center due to having a DSM-V
diagnosis of mental illness, including dual diagnosis (dual diagnosis refers to
co-occurring mental illness and alcohol/ substance use disorder) as indicated in their
records

- are interested in participating in a social media program

- are fluent in English

- have a basic ability to use a mobile phone

Exclusion Criteria:

- Inability to give full and knowing consent