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Transdiagnostic-focused apps for depression and anxiety: a meta-analysis
Jake Linardon1, Cleo Anderson2, Mariel Messer2
1SEED Lifespan Strategic Research Centre, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia. Jake.Linardon@deakin.edu.au.
NPJ Digital Medicine
|July 15, 2025
Summary
Transdiagnostic mental health apps show small but significant effects for depression and anxiety relief. These digital tools offer accessible support and are comparable to disorder-specific apps, highlighting their public health potential.
Area of Science:
- Digital mental health
- Psychological interventions
- Evidence-based practice
Background:
- Transdiagnostic mental health apps are emerging for depression and anxiety.
- A synthesis of their evidence base is currently lacking.
- Understanding their efficacy compared to diagnostic-specific apps is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of transdiagnostic-focused mental health apps for depression and anxiety.
- To compare the effectiveness of transdiagnostic apps against diagnostic-specific apps.
- To synthesize the existing evidence base for transdiagnostic mental health apps.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials (N=5165).
- Inclusion of studies on transdiagnostic apps for depression and anxiety.
- Pooled analysis of post-intervention and follow-up outcomes.
Main Results:
- Transdiagnostic apps yielded small, significant post-intervention effects (g=0.29) for depression, anxiety, and distress.
- Effects remained significant across sensitivity analyses and at follow-up (g=0.25).
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) apps and waitlist-controlled trials showed larger effects; outcomes were comparable to disorder-specific apps.
Conclusions:
- Transdiagnostic apps demonstrate potential for accessible depression and anxiety management.
- Their broad applicability underscores their public health relevance.
- Hybrid models combining digital and in-person transdiagnostic therapies may enhance care.
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