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Technology Matters: SPARX - computerised cognitive behavioural therapy for adolescent depression in a game format
Theresa Fleming1, Mathijs Lucassen2, Karolina Stasiak3
1School of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health
|January 4, 2021
Summary
Digital tools offer a promising solution for adolescent depression, overcoming barriers like workforce shortages and help-seeking reluctance. SPARX, a digital therapeutic, is highlighted as a recommended first-line treatment for adolescent mental health.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health
- Adolescent Psychology
- Digital Therapeutics
Background:
- Adolescent depression is a growing concern, particularly in high-income countries.
- Traditional face-to-face therapies face challenges like workforce shortages and adolescent help-seeking reluctance.
- Digital tools are increasingly recognized for treating mental health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence base for SPARX, a digital tool for adolescent depression.
- To discuss the clinical application and implementation of SPARX.
- To identify future research directions for digital mental health interventions.
Main Methods:
- Review of the evidence supporting SPARX.
- Discussion of clinical implementation strategies.
- Consideration of challenges and future research needs.
Main Results:
- SPARX is a digital tool specifically recommended in NICE guideline NG134.
- Evidence supports the use of digital tools as a first-line treatment for mental health problems.
- Implementation issues and future research are considered.
Conclusions:
- Digital tools like SPARX present a viable and recommended approach to addressing adolescent depression.
- Overcoming barriers to traditional therapy, digital interventions offer scalable solutions.
- Further research is needed to optimize the implementation and effectiveness of digital mental health tools.
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