Ambulatory Assessment in Mental Health Research: Expert Consensus on Current Practices and Future Directions

Ambulatory Assessment (AA) studies have proliferated in mental health science, promising unparalleled insights into the dynamic nature of mental health. The high methodological heterogeneity of AA studies calls for the harmonization of approaches and the establishment of research standards. This expert consensus provides an overview of best-practice recommendations to integrate AA in mental health research. We queried 26 experts in the field in a Delphi-adapted process, resulting in recommendations regarding eight topics, encompassing methodological considerations, technological advancements, and practical applications; interdisciplinary collaboration and personalized treatment approaches were recurrent themes. By establishing standardized guidelines and best practices, this expert consensus serves as a resource for mental health scholars seeking to leverage AA tools in research and practice. Ultimately, the integration of AA holds promise for revolutionizing mental health care, fostering precision medicine, and improving outcomes for individuals living with mental disorders.