Examining the Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Outcomes of Integrating a Recovery App to Recovery High School Care Planning

Recovery High Schools (RHS) support adolescents with substance use disorders by integrating academic and recovery programming. As mobile health (mHealth) technologies become more prevalent, their potential to supplement care planning within RHS settings warrants exploration. This two-phase feasibility study examined the integration of a wearable recovery-focused health app into RHS care. In the pre-pilot phase (n = 6), students used Fitbit devices for two weeks to identify initial barriers and facilitators. In the pilot phase (n = 14), students and staff participated over three months, providing survey data, device metrics, and qualitative feedback. Students consistently valued step and sleep tracking but rarely used recovery-specific features. Barriers included syncing issues, wristband discomfort, and unclear staff protocols. Despite low engagement, modest improvements in recovery capital and school belonging were observed. Qualitative feedback suggested the devices supported health awareness and student-staff dialogue. While technical barriers limited consistent engagement, students and staff identified key opportunities to improve implementation of mHealth tools in RHS settings. Future efforts should prioritize infrastructure support, adolescent-centered customization, and streamlined staff workflows. Wearable technologies may serve as valuable adjuncts to adolescent recovery support when implementation is thoughtfully designed.