A mindfulness-based app for weight management and stress reduction

University life can be stressful and negatively affect university students' lifestyle choices and weight gain. Research suggests that mindfulness, including mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindful eating, may be helpful for students to deal with these issues. There is also evidence to suggest that behaviour change and weight loss mobile phone applications ('apps') can assist with weight management.

This study develops and evaluates a university-centred mindfulness-based app targeting these challenges. The study aims to understand university students' preferences and perceptions regarding a mindfulness-based app for weight management, weight-related behaviours (diet and exercise), and stress. This study also aims to gain insight into life stressors affecting weight-related lifestyle behaviours in university students, as well as barriers and facilitators of meditation and healthy weight-related lifestyle behaviours.