What’s the project?
Adolescents sometimes go through tough times that might make them think about or engage in self-harm, and it is believed that sleep problems could play a role in this, but more information is needed to fully understand how sleep affects these thoughts and behaviours. Bethany Martin, and her research team based at the University of Strathclyde are doing some research exploring whether sleep is linked to self-harm thoughts or behaviour over a short period of time. To do this, the team are going to use a method called Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA). EMA involves completing multiple short surveys (like a diary entry) through a smartphone app in your day-to-day life.
The research team designed this study together with young people who have lived experience of self-harm. Their input helped shape the study so that it is more accessible, relevant and sensitive to exploring difficult topics like sleep and self-harm. All elements of the study will be scheduled at a time that suits you.
Find out more
This study will involve two parts:
Part 1: EMA
The study starts with a video call that will last between 45-60 minutes to explain the project and create a well-being plan together. This includes things that can help you cope if you’re struggling like distractions or people you can reach out to. You’ll also complete an initial baseline questionnaire about your mental health, sleep and self-harm which should take around 60 minutes to complete.
After that, you will receive three short surveys per day for 14 days on your smartphone. These surveys ask about your mood, sleep, daily context and self-harm. Each one takes approximately 3 minutes and will be scheduled based on your daily routine.
Part 2: Interview
The research team will also invite you to a follow-up interview via video call. The interview will explore your experience of taking part in the EMA study, including what aspects were easy or difficult, how the surveys made you feel and any suggestions you have for improvement.
You must:
- Be aged between 18 and 24 years old,
- Have self-harmed in the past year
- Own a smartphone
- Be based in the UK
However, you won’t be able to take part if you’re currently staying in a mental health facility, you’re getting treatment for a sleep problem or have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder (other than insomnia or nightmare disorder). If you’re unsure whether any of these apply to you, please get in touch with Beth and you can decide together.
As a thank you for your time and effort, participants that engage with the daily surveys across the study period will be entered into a prize draw to win a £40 One4all gift voucher.
If you are interested in this research or have any questions, please contact Beth at [email protected]
The deadline for this opportunity is the 31st March 2026 (unless the team meet their recruitment target earlier).
Please note that the McPin Foundation regularly promotes opportunities on behalf of other institutions; we are not responsible for the continuation or contents of further correspondence with any project partners where we are not listed as the project main point of contact.
