Ambulatory assessment in mental health: expert consensus and recommendations

Ambulatory assessment studies have proliferated in mental health science, promising unparalleled insights into the dynamic nature of mental health. The high methodological heterogeneity of ambulatory assessment 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 ambulatory assessment into 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 ambulatory assessment tools in research and practice. Ultimately, the integration of ambulatory assessment holds promise for revolutionizing mental health care, fostering precision medicine, and improving outcomes for individuals living with mental disorders.