Veteran Monitoring Initiative for Neurophysiology and Depression (V-MIND)

Veterans face a heightened risk of common mental health conditions, with depression rates estimated to be approximately double that of the general population. However, dropout from treatment is a concern, highlighting the need to explore novel treatment approaches. Wearable devices, such as smart watches have been explored for their potential to assess, monitor and predict depression in civilian samples. Such devices offer a comprehensive view of the lifestyle and physiological factors influencing low mood. This observational study will, for the first time in the UK, explore the relationship between depression symptoms and physical activity in veterans. It may also inform potential future interventions based on combining information from wearable devices with managing symptoms of low mood in veterans with depression. 

The project aims to explore the relationship between CMDs, including symptoms of anxiety and depression, and measures of physical activity recorded by wrist-worn fitness trackers among UK veterans. 

In addition to the primary objective, the study seeks to examine the relationship between mental health and functioning factors, including potential comorbidities such as somatic symptoms, loneliness, and sleep, in relation to physical activation metrics (sleep, steps, active minutes per day, HRV, stress, and activity) obtained from fitness trackers. 

A secondary objective is to explore the feasibility of using fitness trackers to enhance the prediction and management of depression among UK veteran populations. By integrating objective physiological data with self-reported mental health measures, this research aims to contribute to improved monitoring and intervention strategies for CMDs within the veteran population. 

This is an observational feasibility study in which 50 UK veterans who self-report experiencing common Mental health Disorders (CMD's) including symptoms of anxiety or depression will be recruited through convenience sampling methods, (social media posts, veteran groups and newsletters). The study involves the observation of behavioural and physiological digital biomarkers measured by wrist worn tech devices (e.g., sleep, physical activity, daily steps and heart rate) plus a monthly health and wellbeing questionnaire. Data will be collected via Garmin Vívosmart-5 watches continuously, and the monthly questionnaire will be completed three times over the course of the study. 

What is the relationship between physical activity and mental health in a sample of UK veterans?

Is it feasible to use wearable technology as a mental health monitoring tool with UK veterans?

50 UK veterans who self-report experiencing symptoms of low mood and depression.