Smartphone App Listens in to Predict Bipolar Episodes

May-14-14 An experimental smartphone app able to predict bipolar mood swings by tracking the person's normal phone conversations could help provide an early warning for people who suffer from bipolar disorder.

The app, developed by a team from the University of Michigan, is part of the PRIORI project—founded to prioritize bipolar care. The app runs in the background of the user's smartphone, where it records and analyzes the person's voice to identify changes in speech patterns that would indicate the onset of a manic or depressive episode. The conversations are kept private—with only the patient's side being recorded—and care teams receive a processed data report (not a recording of the actual conversation).

The team hopes the app could be used to ensure more people, particularly in areas with little mental health care, can receive the assistance they need. The app could also eventually be used to recognize other conditions identified by changes in speech patterns, such as Parkinson's or schizophrenia.

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[GIZMAG.COM]
[UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN]

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