Lifting Wellbeing in Youth with Diabetes: Exploring User Experiences with the LIFT App (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are at an increased risk of experiencing psychological distress; however, there remains a scarcity of scalable and widely accessible support services, particularly for adolescents and young adults (AYAs). To address this, digital health interventions are becoming an increasing focus of innovation in diabetes care. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to explore qualitative feedback regarding the LIFT wellbeing app, designed to support emotional wellbeing in AYAs with T1D. METHODS Of the 59 AYA and 22 caregivers who participated in the main feasibility trial[1], 13 (n=9 AYA, n=4 support people) agreed to participate in this secondary study. Participants attended a virtual focus group or interview to discuss their experience using the app. Transcribed audio recordings were analysed using directed content analysis, guided by the Mobile Application Rating Scale framework. RESULTS Participants viewed LIFT as engaging, easy to use, and impactful. Positive feedback focused on the app’s interactive features and visual design. However, user feedback also highlighted areas for improvement, including enhanced content pacing, accessibility, personalisation, and greater gamification to sustain long-term engagement. CONCLUSIONS Findings underscore the potential of user-driven, emotionally intelligent digital tools to enhance wellbeing and connection for young people with T1D, as well as their support people/caregivers. Insights can inform the refinement of LIFT and the development of broader digital health interventions aimed at promoting wellbeing and fostering meaningful, sustained impact.