New Research Shows that Holly Health Improves Subjective Wellbeing in People Living with Multiple Chronic Conditions
Can digital coaching support those living with multiple chronic conditions? The evidence says yes.
A new peer-reviewed study, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR), has found that Holly Health meaningfully improves subjective wellbeing in people living with multimorbidity (living with two or more long-term conditions).
The research, conducted in partnership with University College London (UCL), is believed to be the first peer-reviewed study to examine the impact of a digital health app specifically on people with multiborbidity. With two-thirds of adults in England aged 65 and over projected to have multiple chronic conditions by 2035, this is one of the most pressing challenges facing the NHS today.
What the research found
Across 565 Holly Health users followed over 12 weeks, the study found significant improvements in life satisfaction, happiness, sense of purpose, and anxiety. These gains were seen across all age groups, including older adults.
Importantly, the research didn't just confirm that the app works. It explored why it works. Through in-depth interviews with 22 users, researchers identified the specific features and mechanisms driving change:
- Habit-tracking and small goals helped users build and maintain healthy behaviours over time
- Positive reinforcement and progress tracking created a genuine sense of achievement and motivation
- Mindfulness content and affirmations supported greater self-compassion
- The Holly chatbot and always-on availability reduced feelings of loneliness and gave users a sense of consistent, personalised support between healthcare appointments
One participant put it simply:
"It almost feels like somebody's looking out for you, but not in a purely medical context."
Why this matters
People living with multiple chronic conditions often fall through the gaps of a healthcare system designed around single diseases. Holistic, preventative support that addresses wellbeing alongside physical health is rarely available at scale.
This research shows that digital coaching can help fill that gap. Holly Health is already partnered with over 200 GP practices across the UK, and studies like this one strengthen the case for embedding this kind of support more widely into care pathways.
In a world where healthcare systems are under increasing pressure, providing people with empowerment and tools to self-manage their health and wellbeing is more important than ever.
The full study is available to read at https://www.jmir.org/2026/1/e78738/
Interested in bringing Holly Health to your population? Get in touch at hello@hollyhealth.io
