Study finds that mental health apps and wearable devices can provide relief to patients while they wait for professional care.
- A recent study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that mental health apps and wearable devices can help patients experiencing long wait times for first appointments with therapists and psychiatrists.
- The study involved over 2,000 patients who were assigned to mobile applications incorporating mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy skills, or mood-enhancing activities while waiting for care.
- Participants showed measurable reductions in depression, anxiety, and suicidality symptoms after using the apps for six weeks.
- The study also introduced a customized app called MyDataHelps, which provided positive prompts based on activity tracker data to encourage mood improvement.
- The results of the study support the use of digital options for mental health support, especially for individuals motivated to seek care and clinics dealing with long wait lists.
Source link
Psychiatry & Mental Health, Public Health & Prevention