Abstract

Mobile technology has emerged as a transformative tool in the management of craving and relapse among individuals with substance use disorders. Craving is a dynamic and multidimensional experience that often precedes relapse, yet traditional clinic-based assessments fail to capture its real-time fluctuations. This narrative review explores how smartphone applications, wearable sensors, and digital health platforms enhance craving management through continuous monitoring, Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA), and automated interventions. Mobile tools offer immediate coping strategies, personalized feedback, and predictive analytics using digital biomarkers such as sleep patterns, location data, and behavioral changes. These echnologies present significant opportunities, including early detection of relapse risk, improved treatment engagement, greater accessibility, and enhanced self-management. However, challenges such as privacy concerns, limited user adherence, ethical implications of passive monitoring, and variability in app quality must be addressed to ensure safe and effective implementation. Mental health and addiction nurses play a crucial role in integrating these technologies into clinical practice and guiding patients in their use. Overall, mobile echnology holds considerable promise for advancing craving management and supporting long-term recovery, provided that its limitations are carefully managed and future innovations prioritize ethical, evidence-based, and patient-centered approaches.

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Funding