How can we promote positive mental health among young adults in Sweden? An evaluation of a new mobile phone-based intervention

INTERVENTION: Participants will be randomized to either the intervention or control group. Each participant will be allocated a number 1 or 2 with equal probabilities using Java’s built‐in random number generator (java.util.Random). Randomization is thus fully computerized, does not use any strata or blocks, and is not possible to subvert, because this and all subsequent study processes are fully automated. Intervention group The intervention is a mobile phone based intervention that aims to increase participants' positive mental health. The text messages include text and/or links to pictures, interactive exercises and further reading. Text messages are automatically sent to users throughout the program with on average 1 text message a day. The program runs for ten weeks with a new theme being introduced each week. These themes have been shown to be important for our positive mental health and include e.g. practicing gratitude or identifying personal strengths. Control group The control group will be given contact details of their local Student health services and Primary care center in a text message after randomization. The Student health services in Sweden are responsible for mental health promotion among university students. CONDITION: Positive mental health ; Mental and Behavioural Disorders PRIMARY OUTCOME: Positive mental health, measured using the Mental health Continuum‐Short Form at baseline, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months SECONDARY OUTCOME: Depression and anxiety symptomatology, measured using the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale at baseline, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. University students between the ages of 18‐29 years of age 2. Able to read and understand Swedish 3. Own a mobile phone