The first digital treatment for depression has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Click Therapeutic, the Rejoyn app is intended to be used in conjunction with antidepressants in people over 22 years of age who suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD).
The developers explained that it all consists of a six-week treatment that helps improve cognitive control of emotions.
A study showed that sleeping less than five hours can increase depression. Photo: Freepikl
See more: A study found that sleeping less than five hours increases the risk of depression
This effect is achieved through a combination of cognitive-emotional training exercises validated by a team of psychologists, psychiatrists and neuroscientists to deliver therapeutic lessons in the brain.
“These brain exercises aim to alter the neural connections necessary for proper processing of emotions, with the goal of reducing symptoms of depression,” the developers said.
How does digital treatment for depression work?
This innovative depression treatment works as a supplement and it is not recommended to stop the patient’s medication. In addition, its use must be approved and controlled by a doctor.
In this way, the treatment consists of two components: one focuses on emotional cognitive training of the brain and some lessons are based on cognitive behavioral therapy.
“The treatment targets neural networks affected by depression and is designed to harness the brain’s inherent neuroplasticity to alter these connections, leading to a reduction in symptoms over time,” the company said.
A 13-week study of 386 people showed significant improvement in patients’ symptoms.
Furthermore, this improvement persisted one month after stopping use.
The companies that developed the application hope to make it available through the iOS and Android stores in the second half of 2024.
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