1
|
Meyer B, Betz LT, Brückner K, Holtkamp M. Enhancing quality of life in epilepsy with a digital intervention (emyna): Results of the ELAINE randomized controlled trial. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:1758-1771. [PMID: 39167060 PMCID: PMC11450619 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.13014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the availability of pharmacological treatment for seizures, people with epilepsy (PwE) commonly experience impairments in quality of life (QoL). Given the limited access to psychosocial treatments for PwE, digital interventions could bridge treatment gaps and help improve QoL. The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of emyna, a fully automated digital intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, in improving health-related QoL among PwE who reported impairments in QoL. A previous trial showed that emyna was effective in improving depressive symptoms among PwE with a comorbid depressive disorder, but its effects on QoL among PwE without comorbid depression remain unknown. METHODS A pragmatic randomized controlled trial was conducted with N = 438 PwE (mean age = 37.5, 70.3% women, physician-verified diagnoses) who were assigned to the intervention group (n = 216), which used emyna alongside treatment as usual (TAU), or the control group (n = 222), which received TAU only. QoL and secondary outcomes such as general self-efficacy, medication adherence, general distress, and epilepsy-related work and social adjustment were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome was QoL assessed with the Quality of Life in Epilepsy [QOLIE-31] total score at 3 months post-randomization. RESULTS Findings from the intent-to-treat analyses showed that after 3 months, participants in the intervention group experienced significant and clinically relevant improvements in health-related QoL compared to the control group (baseline-adjusted group difference = 4.5; 95% CI = [2.0, 6.9], p < 0.001; Cohen's d = 0.32). Effects on secondary outcomes did not reach statistical significance. SIGNIFICANCE This study extends previous research by demonstrating that emyna facilitates improvements in QoL in a diverse group of PwE treated in routine care settings. This CBT-based digital intervention therefore presents a convenient and cost-effective addition to healthcare providers' treatment repertoire. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY In our study, we tested a digital program called emyna, which conveys cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to help improve the quality of life for people living with epilepsy. We found that those who used emyna alongside their usual treatments felt better about their quality of life compared to those who did not use the program. Emyna offers a new, convenient way for people with epilepsy to manage their condition, which can be used alongside currently available treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Björn Meyer
- Research & Development DepartmentGAIA GroupHamburgGermany
| | - Linda T. Betz
- Research & Development DepartmentGAIA GroupHamburgGermany
| | - Katja Brückner
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Epilepsy Center HamburgEvangelical Hospital AlsterdorfHamburgGermany
| | - Martin Holtkamp
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy‐Center Berlin‐BrandenburgCharité‐Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Meyer B, Betz LT, Jacob GA, Krause N, Riemann-Lorenz K, Gold SM, Pöttgen J, Heesen C. Effectiveness of a digital lifestyle management intervention (levidex) to improve quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis: results of a randomized controlled trial. BMC Neurol 2024; 24:347. [PMID: 39285343 PMCID: PMC11404018 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03843-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative disease with diverse symptomatology, significantly impacting patients' quality of life (QoL). While pharmacological therapies focus primarily on reducing inflammation and relapse rates, non-pharmacological interventions, including digital health applications, have shown promise in improving QoL among persons with MS (PwMS). Pilot studies had shown the feasibility and acceptability of levidex, a digital health application based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, a broad set of behavior change techniques, and relevant lifestyle-change advice. This randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the effects of levidex on MS-related QoL over 6 months. METHODS Participants who were diagnosed with MS for at least one year were recruited via the internet in Germany, using a secure survey software platform, and were randomly assigned to the intervention group (IG), in which they received standard care + levidex, or an active control group (CG), in which they received standard care and were offered web-adapted material on the topic of lifestyle change from the German Multiple Sclerosis Society (DMSG). The primary outcome was MS-related QoL after 6 months, measured by the Hamburg Quality of Life Questionnaire in MS (HAQUAMS); secondary outcomes included QoL subscales, sick days, and health behavior, among others. Analyses of Covariance (ANCOVA) were used to examine intervention effects at 6 months. Participants were recruited between November 2020 and February 2022. RESULTS A total of 421 adult participants (mean age: 47.5, 78.1% women) were included and randomized (IG, n = 195, CG, n = 226). After 6 months, the IG exhibited significantly higher MS-related QoL, compared to the CG (total score HAQUAMS, adjusted group mean difference = -0.14, 95% CI: [-0.22, -0.06], p = 0.001; Cohen's d = 0.23), with significant effects also observed on the cognitive and mood subscales. At 6 months, IG participants also reported significantly fewer sick days (median = 2 days in IG vs. 6 days in CG; W = 3939, p = 0.012) and significantly higher levels of daily activities, as measured by the Frenchay Activity Index, adjusted group mean difference = 1.37, 95% CI = [0.33, 2.40], p = 0.010; Cohen's d = 0.16. Safety analyses showed no adverse events and good satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Compared to the control group, levidex facilitated clinically relevant improvements in MS-related QoL, reduced sick days, and enhanced activity in PwMS over 6 months. These findings suggest that levidex can serve as an effective non-pharmacological adjunctive treatment element to standard care and could help improve QoL among PwMS. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registered on 22.09.2020 at the German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00023023.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Björn Meyer
- Research and Development Department, GAIA Group, Hans-Henny-Jahnn-Weg 53, 22085, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Linda T Betz
- Research and Development Department, GAIA Group, Hans-Henny-Jahnn-Weg 53, 22085, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gitta A Jacob
- Research and Development Department, GAIA Group, Hans-Henny-Jahnn-Weg 53, 22085, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Krause
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karin Riemann-Lorenz
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan M Gold
- Medical Department, Section Psychosomatics and Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jana Pöttgen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
El-Haj-Mohamad R, Stein J, Stammel N, Nesterko Y, Wagner B, Böttche M, Knaevelsrud C. Efficacy of internet-based cognitive behavioral and interpersonal treatment for depression in Arabic speaking countries: A randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2024; 368:573-583. [PMID: 39293602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.09.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Politically and economically unstable contexts have been associated with increased prevalence rates of depression. Despite high demand, the availability of mental health experts and care systems is limited in Arabic-speaking countries. Internet-based interventions might provide an opportunity to treat patients independently of location. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of internet-based cognitive behavioral treatment (iCBT) and interpersonal treatment (iIPT) for depression in Arabic-speaking countries. METHODS In total, 743 Arabic-speaking adults with depression were randomly allocated to iCBT (n = 243), iIPT (n = 247), or waitlist (n = 253). Depressive, anxiety, and somatoform symptoms, perceived social support and quality of life (QoL) were assessed at pre-, and post-treatment and at three months follow-up. Multiple imputation was performed for missing data. Changes associated with treatment were analyzed using regression in the completer and intention-to-treat sample. RESULTS Participants in both treatment groups showed lower depressive and anxiety symptom severity, higher QoL, and perceived social support compared to the waitlist group (p < .001). Somatoform symptom severity was significantly lower in participants receiving iIPT compared to waitlist (p < .001). Differences between the two treatments in all outcomes were non-significant (p > .05). Three-month follow-up treatment effects regarding depressive symptoms were indicated. LIMITATIONS The sample mainly consists of educated, single, female adults. Three-month follow-up results rely on a small subsample and must be interpreted with caution. CONCLUSIONS This is the first randomized controlled trial to demonstrate the efficacy of iCBT and iIPT for depression in Arabic-speaking countries. It provides first indications that internet-based interventions might help specific individuals in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rayan El-Haj-Mohamad
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center ÜBERLEBEN, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Jana Stein
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center ÜBERLEBEN, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nadine Stammel
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yuriy Nesterko
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Center ÜBERLEBEN, Berlin, Germany; Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Birgit Wagner
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Böttche
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Clinical Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Edelbluth S, Klein JP, Schwartz B, Hehlmann M, Arndt A, Rubel J, Moggia D, Berger T, Meyer B, Moritz S, Schröder J, Lutz W. The long shadow of early-change patterns: a 3-year follow-up after the use of a web-based intervention for mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Cogn Behav Ther 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38912859 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2024.2368520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Web-based interventions can be effective in treating depressive symptoms. Patients with risk not responding to treatment have been identified by early change patterns. This study aims to examine whether early changes are superior to baseline parameters in predicting long-term outcome. In a randomized clinical trial with 409 individuals experiencing mild to moderate depressive symptoms using the web-based intervention deprexis, three latent classes were identified (early response after registration, early response after screening and early deterioration) based on early change in the first four weeks of the intervention. Baseline variables and these classes were included in a Stepwise Cox Proportional Hazard Multiple Regression to identify predictors associated with the onset of remission over 36-months. Early change class was a significant predictor of remission over 36 months. Compared to early deterioration after screening, both early response after registration and after screening were associated with a higher likelihood of remission. In sensitivity and secondary analyses, only change class consistently emerged as a predictor of long-term outcome. Early improvement in depression symptoms predicted long-term outcome and those showing early improvement had a higher likelihood of long-term remission. These findings suggest that early changes might be a robust predictor for long-term outcome beyond baseline parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Edelbluth
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Trier, Trier, Germany
| | - Jan Philipp Klein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Lübeck University, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Brian Schwartz
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Trier, Trier, Germany
| | - Miriam Hehlmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy for Adults, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrueck, Germany
| | - Alice Arndt
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Trier, Trier, Germany
| | - Julian Rubel
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy for Adults, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrueck, Germany
| | - Danilo Moggia
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Trier, Trier, Germany
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Psychology, Bern University, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Steffen Moritz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johanna Schröder
- Department of Psychology, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Lutz
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Trier, Trier, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Amiot O, Sauvaget A, Alamome I, Bulteau S, Charpeaud T, Clair AH, Courtet P, Drapier D, Haffen E, Fakra E, Gaudeau-Bosma C, Gaillard A, Mouchabac S, Pineau F, Narboni V, Duburcq A, Lecardeur L. Prospective Acceptability of Digital Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder in France: Multicentric Real-Life Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e53204. [PMID: 38568139 PMCID: PMC11148517 DOI: 10.2196/53204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Although most international guidelines recommend psychological and psychosocial interventions as first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression, access remains limited in France due to the limited availability of trained clinicians, high costs for patients in the context of nonreimbursement, and the fear of stigmatization. Therefore, online blended psychological treatment such as Deprexis could improve access to care for people with depression. It has several advantages, such as easy accessibility and scalability, and it is supported by evidence. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the real-life acceptability of Deprexis for people with depression in France outside of a reimbursement pathway. METHODS Deprexis Acceptability Study Measure in Real Life (DARE) was designed as a multicenter cross-sectional study in which Deprexis was offered to any patient meeting the inclusion criteria during the fixed inclusion period (June 2022-March 2023). Inclusion criteria were (1) depression, (2) age between 18 and 65 years, (3) sufficient French language skills, and (4) access to the internet with a device to connect to the Deprexis platform. Exclusion criteria were previous or current diagnoses of bipolar disorder, psychotic symptoms, and suicidal thoughts during the current episode. The primary objective was to measure the prospective acceptability of Deprexis, a new digital therapy. Secondary objectives were to examine differences in acceptability according to patient and clinician characteristics and to identify reasons for refusal. All investigators received video-based training on Deprexis before enrollment to ensure that they all had the same level of information and understanding of the program. RESULTS A total of 245 patients were eligible (n=159, 64.9% were women and n=138, 56.3% were single). The mean age was 40.7 (SD 14.1) years. A total of 78% (n=191) of the patients had moderate to severe depression (according to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]). More than half of the population had another psychiatric comorbidity (excluding bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and suicidal ideation). A total of 33.9% (n=83) of patients accepted the idea of using Deprexis; the main reason for refusal was financial at 83.3% (n=135). Multivariate logistic regression identified factors that might favor the acceptability of Deprexis. Among these, being a couple, being treated with an antidepressant, or having a low severity level favored the acceptance of Deprexis. CONCLUSIONS DARE is the first French study aiming at evaluating the prospective acceptability of digital therapy in the treatment of depression. The main reason for the refusal of Deprexis was financial. DARE will allow better identification of factors influencing acceptability in a natural setting. This study highlights the importance of investigating factors that may be associated with the acceptability of digital interventions, such as marital status, medication use, and severity of depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Odile Amiot
- Groupe Hospitalier Paul Guiraud, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Anne Sauvaget
- Movement - Interactions - Performance, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Nantes, Nantes Université, Nantes, France
| | | | - Samuel Bulteau
- Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale 1246, MethodS in Patient-Centered Outcomes and HEalth ResEarch, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Department of Addictology, Psychiatry and Old Age Psychiatry, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
- Department of Addictology, Psychiatry and Old Age Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | | | - Philippe Courtet
- Neuropsychiatrie: Recherche Epidemiologique et Clinique, Institut national de la sante et de la recherche medicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Dominique Drapier
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume Régnier, Pôle hospitalo universitaire de psychiatrie adulte, Rennes, France
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Institut national de la sante et de la recherche medicale 1414 équipe neuropsychiatrie du développement et du comportement, Université de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Emmanuel Haffen
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Adulte, Centre d'Investigation Clinique 1431-Institut national de la sante et de la recherche medicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Eric Fakra
- Pôle Universitaire de Psychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne, Université Jean Monnet, Equipe Troubles psychiatriques, Recherche en Neurosciences et Recherche Clinique- InInstitut national de la sante et de la recherche medicaleserm, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 5292, Université Lyon 1, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Christian Gaudeau-Bosma
- Espace Territoriale d'Accompagnement Psychosociale, Groupe Hospitaliser Territorial Val de Marne-Est, Saint-Maurice, France
| | | | - Stéphane Mouchabac
- Department of Psychiatry, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Fanny Pineau
- Cabinet de psychologie, Bureaux du Polygone, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Anne Duburcq
- CEMKA - 43, boulevard du Maréchal Joffre, Bourg-La-Reine, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Biskupiak Z, Ha VV, Rohaj A, Bulaj G. Digital Therapeutics for Improving Effectiveness of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Biological Products: Preclinical and Clinical Studies Supporting Development of Drug + Digital Combination Therapies for Chronic Diseases. J Clin Med 2024; 13:403. [PMID: 38256537 PMCID: PMC10816409 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Limitations of pharmaceutical drugs and biologics for chronic diseases (e.g., medication non-adherence, adverse effects, toxicity, or inadequate efficacy) can be mitigated by mobile medical apps, known as digital therapeutics (DTx). Authorization of adjunct DTx by the US Food and Drug Administration and draft guidelines on "prescription drug use-related software" illustrate opportunities to create drug + digital combination therapies, ultimately leading towards drug-device combination products (DTx has a status of medical devices). Digital interventions (mobile, web-based, virtual reality, and video game applications) demonstrate clinically meaningful benefits for people living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, depression, and anxiety. In the respective animal disease models, preclinical studies on environmental enrichment and other non-pharmacological modalities (physical activity, social interactions, learning, and music) as surrogates for DTx "active ingredients" also show improved outcomes. In this narrative review, we discuss how drug + digital combination therapies can impact translational research, drug discovery and development, generic drug repurposing, and gene therapies. Market-driven incentives to create drug-device combination products are illustrated by Humira® (adalimumab) facing a "patent-cliff" competition with cheaper and more effective biosimilars seamlessly integrated with DTx. In conclusion, pharma and biotech companies, patients, and healthcare professionals will benefit from accelerating integration of digital interventions with pharmacotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zack Biskupiak
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Victor Vinh Ha
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Aarushi Rohaj
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- The Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA
| | - Grzegorz Bulaj
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Buss JF, Steinberg JS, Banks G, Horani D, Rutter LA, Wasil AR, Ramirez I, Lorenzo-Luaces L. Availability of Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies for Depression: A Systematic Review. Behav Ther 2024; 55:201-211. [PMID: 38216233 PMCID: PMC10787155 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
We examined the availability and components of internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapies (iCBTs) for depression tested in randomized-controlled trials (RCTs). The objectives of this literature review were to determine the extent to which research-validated iCBTs were available to the public, as well as to determine their therapeutic content. A literature review of RCTs for iCBTs was conducted on July 30, 2021. For each iCBT, interventions were rated by content and compared to commercially available smartphone apps. Our search yielded 80 studies using 41 unique iCBTs. Of these, only 6 (15%) were completely available to the public, more than half were not publicly available (46%), and the remaining 39% were available to the public with some restrictions (e.g., those based on the user's geographical location). When comparing iCBTs evaluated in RCTs to commercially available smartphone apps, we found that iCBTs were more likely to contain psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, problem solving, and interpersonal communication components. iCBTs from RCTs contain evidence-based content but few are available to the public. Extending beyond efficacy, attention should be paid to the dissemination of iCBTs.
Collapse
|
8
|
McIntyre RS, Greenleaf W, Bulaj G, Taylor ST, Mitsi G, Saliu D, Czysz A, Silvesti G, Garcia M, Jain R. Digital health technologies and major depressive disorder. CNS Spectr 2023; 28:662-673. [PMID: 37042341 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852923002225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
There is an urgent need to improve the clinical management of major depressive disorder (MDD), which has become increasingly prevalent over the past two decades. Several gaps and challenges in the awareness, detection, treatment, and monitoring of MDD remain to be addressed. Digital health technologies have demonstrated utility in relation to various health conditions, including MDD. Factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated the development of telemedicine, mobile medical apps, and virtual reality apps and have continued to introduce new possibilities across mental health care. Growing access to and acceptance of digital health technologies present opportunities to expand the scope of care and to close gaps in the management of MDD. Digital health technology is rapidly evolving the options for nonclinical support and clinical care for patients with MDD. Iterative efforts to validate and optimize such digital health technologies, including digital therapeutics and digital biomarkers, continue to improve access to and quality of personalized detection, treatment, and monitoring of MDD. The aim of this review is to highlight the existing gaps and challenges in depression management and discuss the current and future landscape of digital health technology as it applies to the challenges faced by patients with MDD and their healthcare providers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roger S McIntyre
- Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Walter Greenleaf
- Virtual Human Interaction Lab, Stanford University, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Grzegorz Bulaj
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Steven T Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, McLean Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Andy Czysz
- Sage Therapeutics, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Rakesh Jain
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Schreiter S, Mascarell-Maricic L, Rakitzis O, Volkmann C, Kaminski J, Daniels MA. Digital Health Applications in the Area of Mental Health. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 120:797-803. [PMID: 37732500 PMCID: PMC10777310 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2023.0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The introduction of digital health applications (DiGA) is a fundamental innovation in Germany. In the field of mental health, numerous applications are already available whose efficacy has been tested in clinical trials. We investigated whether, and to what extent, the use of DiGA can be recommended on the basis of the available evidence. METHODS In this scoping review, we summarize the evidence supporting the use of DiGA in the mental health field through an examination of relevant publications that were retrieved by a systematic literature search. We provide an annotated tabular listing and discuss the current advantages of, and obstacles to, the care of mentally ill patients with the aid of DiGA. RESULTS We identified 17 DiGA for use in depression, anxiety disorders, addiction disorders, sleep disorders, stress/burnout, vaginismus, and chronic pain. These DiGA have been evaluated to date in 3 meta-analyses, 39 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and two single-armed intervention trials. 23 of the 36 published trials were carried out with the direct participation of the manufacturers. 29 of the 39 RCTs were not blinded or contained no information regarding blinding. Active controls were used in 6 of the 39 RCTs. The reported effect sizes, with the exclusion of pre-post analyses, ranged from 0.16 to 1.79. CONCLUSION Most of the published studies display a high risk of bias, both because of the manufacturers' participation and because of methodological deficiencies. DiGA are an increasingly important therapeutic modality in psychiatry. The available evidence indicates that treatment effects are indeed present, but prospective comparisons with established treatments are still entirely lacking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Schreiter
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lea Mascarell-Maricic
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Orestis Rakitzis
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Constantin Volkmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jakob Kaminski
- * These authors share last authorship
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin André Daniels
- * These authors share last authorship
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Courtet P, Amiot O, Baca-Garcia E, Bellardita L, Cerveri G, Clair AH, De Leo D, Drapier D, Fakra E, Gheysen F, Giner L, Gonzalez-Pinto A, Gussoni G, Haffen E, Lecardeur L, Mayoral-Cleries F, Mennini FS, Sáiz PA, Vieta E, Hidalgo DA, Volpe U. Understanding the potential of digital therapies in implementing the standard of care for depression in Europe. Eur Psychiatry 2023; 66:e82. [PMID: 37872705 PMCID: PMC10755564 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.2453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorders represent the largest proportion of mental illnesses, and by 2030, they are expected to be the first cause of disability-adjusted life years [1]. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated prevalence and burden of depression and increased the occurrence of depressive symptoms in general population [2]. The urgency of implementing mental health services to address new barriers to care persuaded clinicians to use telemedicine to follow patients and stay in touch with them, and to explore digital therapeutics (DTx) as potential tools for clinical intervention [2]. The combination of antidepressants and psychotherapy is widely recommended for depression by international guidelines [3] but is less frequently applied in real-world practice. Commonly used treatments are pharmacological, but while being effective, some aspects such as adherence to the drug regimen, residual symptoms, resistance, lack of information, and stigma may hinder successful treatment. In case of less severe depression, standalone psychological therapies should be the first-line treatment option [3], but access to trained psychotherapists remains inequitable. DTx are evidence-based therapies driven by software programs to treat or complement treatment of a specific disease. DTx are classified as Medical Devices, and given their therapeutic purpose, they need to be validated through randomized controlled clinical trials, as for drug-based therapies. In the last 10 years, studies of digital interventions have proliferated; these studies demonstrate that digital interventions increase remission rates and lower the severity of depressive symptoms compared with waitlist, treatment as usual, and attention control conditions [4]. Despite the efficacy demonstrated in clinical trials, many of these tools never reach real-life patients; thus, it might be necessary to implement DTx in the public health system to expand access to valid treatment options. In this framework, DTx represent a good opportunity to help people with depression receive optimal psychotherapeutic care [5].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Courtet
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital CHU Montpellier, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Odile Amiot
- GH Paul Guiraud, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Enrique Baca-Garcia
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Jimenez Diaz Foundation, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Rey Juan Carlos, Mostoles, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, General Hospital of Villalba, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Infanta Elena, Valdemoro, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Madrid Autonomous University, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | | | | | - Anne-Hélène Clair
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute – ICM, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Diego De Leo
- Department of Psychology, Primorska University, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Dominique Drapier
- Centre Hospitalier Guillaume régnier, Pôle Hospitalo universitaire de psychiatrie, CIC Rennes INSERM, Rennes, France
| | - Eric Fakra
- Saint Étienne University Hospital, University Jean Monnet, Saint Étienne, France
- PsyR2 Team, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon (CRNL), INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR 5292, Université Jean Monnet Saint Etienne, Université Lyon 1, Saint-Étienne, France
| | | | - Lucas Giner
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Ana Gonzalez-Pinto
- BIOARABA, Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitario de Alava, UPV/EHU, CIBERSAM, Vitoria, Spain
| | - Gualberto Gussoni
- Clinical Research Department, Italian Scientific Society of Internal Medicine (FADOI), Milan, Italy
| | - Emmanuel Haffen
- UR LINC, Service de psychiatrie de l’adulte, CIC-1431 INSERM, CHU de Besançon, Université de Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | | | - Fermin Mayoral-Cleries
- Department of Mental Health, Regional University Hospital of Málaga, Biomedical Research Institute of Malaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Francesco Saverio Mennini
- EEHTA-CEIS, DEF Department, Faculty of Economic, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma, Italy
- Institute for Leadership and Management in Health, Kingston University, London, UK
| | - Pilar A Sáiz
- Centro de Investigacion en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Carlos III Institute of Health, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias (INEUROPA), Mental Health Services of the Principality of Asturias (SESPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Hospital Clinic, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diego Alberto Hidalgo
- Bipolar Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Umberto Volpe
- Clinical Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kutzinski M, Krause N, Riemann-Lorenz K, Meyer B, Heesen C. Acceptability of a digital health application to empower persons with multiple sclerosis with moderate to severe disability: single-arm prospective pilot study. BMC Neurol 2023; 23:382. [PMID: 37872471 PMCID: PMC10591383 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03434-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) desire to learn how health behaviour changes (e.g., dietary adjustments, physical activity, improvements in stress management) might help them manage their disease. Previous research has shown that certain health behaviour changes can improve quality of life (QoL), fatigue and other MS outcomes. Digital health applications may be well suited to deliver relevant health behavioural interventions because of their accessibility and flexibility. The digital health application "levidex" was designed to facilitate health behaviour change by offering evidence-based patient information and cognitive-behavioural therapy techniques to pwMS. By doing so, levidex aims to improve QoL and MS symptoms such as fatigue and mental health. OBJECTIVES A previous study reported on the development of levidex; this non-randomised pilot study examined the feasibility (practicability and acceptability) of levidex in pwMS with moderate to severe disability. Furthermore, the intervention's impact on empowerment, stress management, and relevant health behaviours (e.g., dietary behaviour, physical activity) was explored. METHODS levidex was originally developed for newly diagnosed pwMS in the first year after diagnosis and eventually modified to offer access to pwMS with moderate to severe disability. Participants (n = 43) with an Expanded Disability Status Scale between 3.5 and 7.5 and a disease duration of more than one year were eligible to participate. The intervention was used over a period of six months with measurement time points at baseline, month 3 and month 6. RESULTS Out of 38 participants who completed the six-month intervention period, 18 (47.4%) completed all 16 modules and 9 (23.7%) reached modules 13-16, the long-term maintenance part of levidex. Participants rated levidex positively in terms of practicability and acceptability and had only few points of criticism such as to include more physical exercise routine suggestions suitable for participants with severe impairment. Data on secondary endpoints showed no significant changes. CONCLUSION This pilot study provided evidence for the practicability and acceptability of levidex, a digital health application designed to facilitate health behaviour change in pwMS with moderate to severe disability. Adequately powered randomised controlled studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to clarify the benefit of levidex in pwMS with moderate to severe disability. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) DRKS00032667 (14/09/2023); Retrospectively registered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max Kutzinski
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Nicole Krause
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Karin Riemann-Lorenz
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Björn Meyer
- Research and Development Department, GAIA Group, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Heesen
- Institute of Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sampson E. Implementing Digital Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder in Routine Psychiatric Appointments: A Pilot Project in a Rural Population. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2023; 61:44-51. [PMID: 37134285 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20230424-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Psychotherapy is well-established as an effective treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). However, many individuals with MDD in rural areas of the United States do not have access to psychotherapy. Self-management (SM) strategies are now the standard of care for chronic medical conditions and may be a viable alternative for individuals without access to psychotherapy. The current article describes the implementation of a 13-week pilot project to integrate digital cognitive-behavioral therapy (dCBT) SM programs into routine psychiatric advanced practice nurse (APN) telehealth appointments in the rural United States. Eight participants completed the project. The project did not meet the benchmark of 20 participants to improve access to treatment; however, one half (n = 4) of participants reported clinically significant improvement in MDD symptoms over 6 weeks. For clients without access to psychotherapy, dCBT SM programs can be effective in improving individual client outcomes when implemented by APNs in routine telehealth appointments. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61(10), 44-51.].
Collapse
|
13
|
Choi H, Kim B, Kim I, Kang JG, Lee Y, Lee H, Park MH. Analysis of the Status and Future Direction for Digital Therapeutics in Children and Adolescent Psychiatry. Soa Chongsonyon Chongsin Uihak 2023; 34:192-203. [PMID: 37841489 PMCID: PMC10568185 DOI: 10.5765/jkacap.230044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital therapeutics based on software, such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, games, and smartphone applications, are in the spotlight as new therapeutic alternatives in child and adolescent psychiatry. It draws attention to overcoming conventional therapeutics' limitations, such as toxicity, cost, and accessibility, and encourages patients to participate in the treatment attractively. The growth potential of the digital therapeutics market for psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents in Korea and abroad has been highlighted. Clinical studies and Food and Drug Administration approvals for digital therapeutics have increased, and cases approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety have emerged in Korea. As seen above, digital transformation in child and adolescent psychiatry will change treatment paradigms significantly. Therefore, as this new field has just begun to emerge, it is necessary to verify the effectiveness and scope of the application of digital therapeutics and consider preparing a compensation system and institutional arrangements. Accordingly, this study analyzed the development trends and application status of digital therapeutics in children and adolescents and presented limitations and development directions from the perspective of application in healthcare. Further, the study is expected to identify the utility and limitations of digital therapeutics for children and adolescents and establish effective application measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haemi Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bora Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Literature and Art Therapy, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Insoo Kim
- Department of Novel, Chung-Ang University Graduate School of Arts Short Course, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Gu Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoonjae Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyowon Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min-Hyeon Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lopes RT, da Rocha GC, Svacina MA, Meyer B, Šipka D, Berger T. Effectiveness of an Internet-Based Self-Guided Program to Treat Depression in a Sample of Brazilian Users: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e46326. [PMID: 37590052 PMCID: PMC10472176 DOI: 10.2196/46326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is undertreated in Brazil. Deprexis is a self-guided internet-based program used to treat depressive symptoms based on empirically supported integrative and cognitive behavioral therapy. Evidence from a meta-analysis supports Deprexis' efficacy in German-speaking countries and the United States, but no study has been conducted using this program in countries with low literacy rates and large social disparities. Furthermore, few studies have investigated whether internet-based interventions ameliorate the psychological processes that might underlie depressive symptomatology, such as low perceived self-efficacy. OBJECTIVE The main objective of this study was to replicate in Brazil previously reported effects of Deprexis on depressive symptom reduction. Therefore, the main research question was whether Deprexis is effective in reducing depressive symptoms and the general psychological state in Brazilian users with moderate and severe depression in comparison with a control group that does not receive access to Deprexis. A secondary research question was whether the use of Deprexis affects perceptions of self-efficacy. METHODS We interviewed 312 participants recruited over the internet and randomized 189 participants with moderate to severe depression (according to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and a semistructured interview) to an intervention condition (treatment as usual plus immediate access to Deprexis for 90 days, n=94) or to a control condition (treatment as usual and delayed access to Deprexis, after 8 weeks, n=95). RESULTS Participants from the immediate access group logged in at Deprexis an average of 14.81 (SD 12.16) times. The intention-to-treat analysis using a linear mixed model showed that participants who received Deprexis improved significantly more than participants assigned to the delayed access control group on the primary depression self-assessment measure (Patient Health Questionnaire-9; Cohen d=0.80; P<.001) and secondary outcomes, such as general psychological state measure (Clinical Outcome in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measurement; Cohen d=0.82; P<.001) and the perceived self-efficacy measure (Cohen d=0.63; P<.001). The intention-to-treat analyses showed that 21% (20/94) of the participants achieved remission compared with 7% (7/95) in the control group (P<.001). The deterioration rates were lower in the immediate access control group. The dropout rate was high, but no differences in demographic and clinical variables were found. Participants reported a medium to high level of satisfaction with Deprexis. CONCLUSIONS These results replicate previous findings by showing that Deprexis can facilitate symptomatic improvement over 3 months in depressed samples of Brazilian users. From a public health perspective, this is important information to expand the reach of internet-based interventions for those who really need them, especially in countries with less access to mental health care. This extends previous research by showing significant effects on perceived self-efficacy. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clíncos (ReBec) RBR-6kk3bx UTN U1111-1212-8998; https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-6kk3bx/. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1590/1516-4446-2019-0582.
Collapse
|
15
|
Hartman CA, Chen Q, Solberg BS, Du Rietz E, Klungsøyr K, Cortese S, Dalsgaard S, Haavik J, Ribasés M, Mostert JC, Libutzki B, Kittel-Schneider S, Cormand B, Vos M, Larsson H, Reif A, Faraone SV, Bellato A. Anxiety, mood, and substance use disorders in adult men and women with and without Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: a substantive and methodological overview. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 151:105209. [PMID: 37149075 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge on psychiatric comorbidity in adult ADHD is essential for prevention, detection, and treatment of these conditions. This review (1) focuses on large studies (n> 10,000; surveys, claims data, population registries) to identify (a) overall, (b) sex- and (c) age-specific patterns of comorbidity of anxiety disorders (ADs), major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) in adults with ADHD relative to adults without ADHD; and (2) describes methodological challenges relating to establishing comorbidity in ADHD in adults as well as priorities for future research. Meta-analyses (ADHD: n=550,748; no ADHD n=14,546,814) yielded pooled odds ratios of 5.0(CI:3.29-7.46) for AD, 4.5(CI:2.44-8.34) for MDD, 8.7(CI:5.47-13.89) for BD and 4.6(CI:2.72-7.80) for SUDs, indicating strong differences in adults with compared to adults without ADHD. Moderation by sex was not found: high comorbidity held for both men and women with sex-specific patterns as in the general population: higher prevalences of ADs, MDD and BD in women and a higher prevalence of SUDs in men. Insufficient data on different phases of the adult lifespan prevented conclusions on developmental changes in comorbidity. We discuss methodological challenges, knowledge gaps, and future research priorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catharina A Hartman
- University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Department of Psychiatry, Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion regulation (ICPE), University of Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Berit Skretting Solberg
- Child- and adolescent psychiatric outpatient unit, Hospital Betanien, Bergen, Norway; Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Ebba Du Rietz
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kari Klungsøyr
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Norway; Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, School of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK; Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York City, New York, USA; Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Søren Dalsgaard
- NCRR - National Centre for Register-based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; iPSYCH - The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, Copenhagen and Aarhus, Denmark; CIRRAU - Centre for Integrated Register-based Research, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jan Haavik
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Norway; Bergen Center of Brain Plasticity, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Marta Ribasés
- Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictions, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Psychiatric Genetics Unit, Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Department of Genetics, Microbiology & Statistics, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeanette C Mostert
- Department of Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Cognition, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Berit Libutzki
- University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Department of Psychiatry, Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion regulation (ICPE), University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sarah Kittel-Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bru Cormand
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Biomedical Network Research Centre on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain; Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (IR-SJD), Esplugues de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Melissa Vos
- University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Department of Psychiatry, Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion regulation (ICPE), University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Henrik Larsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt - Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stephen V Faraone
- Departments of Psychiatry and of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Alessio Bellato
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Semenyih, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Labinsky H, Gupta L, Raimondo MG, Schett G, Knitza J. Real-world usage of digital health applications (DiGA) in rheumatology: results from a German patient survey. Rheumatol Int 2023; 43:713-719. [PMID: 36543961 PMCID: PMC9770561 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-022-05261-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mobile health applications and digital therapeutics (DTx) aim to improve current patient care. Real-world data on DTx are, however, scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the adherence, acceptance, and efficacy of DTx in a clinical routine rheumatology setting. We conducted a prospective observational cohort study assessing the use, adherence, acceptance, and efficacy of the DTx DiGA (Digitale Gesundheitsanwendungen) by survey over 12 weeks. Patients included had to have a rheumatic disease and had been prescribed a DiGA. Acceptance was assessed using the Net promoter score (NPS). 48 patients were prescribed DiGA. Of these, 39/48 (81%) completed the follow-up survey. 21/39 (54%) patients downloaded the DTx and 20/39 (51%) used the DTx at least once. 9/39 (23%) of patients stopped quickly afterward and 5/39 (13%) reported having completed the whole DTx program. Lack of time and commitment were reported as the main reasons for non-use. Overall acceptance of DiGA was high (Net promoter score (NPS) mean (SD) 7.8/10 (2.3)). While the majority of patients (60%) reported no improvement, one subgroup of patients (7/20, 35%) who regularly used an exercise-based DTx for back pain reported symptom improvement. Acceptance of DTx in patients with rheumatic diseases is high, however onboarding to DTx use and adherence to DTx is still challenging in patients with rheumatic diseases. In a subgroup of patients with back pain, however, the use of an exercise-based DTx led to symptom improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Labinsky
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Latika Gupta
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, City Hospital, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Maria Gabriella Raimondo
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3- Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Ulmenweg 18, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Immuntherapie (DZI), Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wolff LL, Rapp M, Mocek A. [Critical Evaluation of Permanently Listed Psychosocial Digital Health Applications into the Directory for Reimbursable Digital Health Applications of the BfArM]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2023; 50:67-79. [PMID: 36170874 DOI: 10.1055/a-1875-3635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Digital health applications (DiGA) delivered as psychosocial therapeutic interventions entail a huge potential through their proven medical benefit or patient-relevant structure and process improvements. Their usage as first-line or concomitant therapy is refunded by the German health insurances. Therefore, the digital health applications have to pass a complex evidence process as requested by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Services. The present article aimed at critically evaluating the available evidence of the permanently registered DiGA using the Critically Appraised Topic method. In conclusion, all studies fulfil at least two thirds of the evaluation criteria, implying that the overall evidence is of sufficient quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Rapp
- Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Potsdam
| | - Anja Mocek
- IGES Institut GmbH, Department of Health Services Research
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Eysenbach G, Amado S, Jasman M, Ervin A, Rhodes JE. Providing Human Support for the Use of Digital Mental Health Interventions: Systematic Meta-review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e42864. [PMID: 36745497 PMCID: PMC9941905 DOI: 10.2196/42864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) have been increasingly deployed to bridge gaps in mental health care, particularly given their promising efficacy. Nevertheless, attrition among DMHI users remains high. In response, human support has been studied as a means of improving retention to and outcomes of DMHIs. Although a growing number of studies and meta-analyses have investigated the effects of human support for DMHIs on mental health outcomes, systematic empirical evidence of its effectiveness across mental health domains remains scant. OBJECTIVE We aimed to summarize the results of meta-analyses of human support versus no support for DMHI use across various outcome domains, participant samples, and support providers. METHODS We conducted a systematic meta-review of meta-analyses, comparing the effects of human support with those of no support for DMHI use, with the goal of qualitatively summarizing data across various outcome domains, participant samples, and support providers. We used MEDLINE, PubMed, and PsycINFO electronic databases. Articles were included if the study had a quantitative meta-analysis study design; the intervention targeted mental health symptoms and was delivered via a technology platform (excluding person-delivered interventions mediated through telehealth, text messages, or social media); the outcome variables included mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, or a number of these symptoms together; and the study included quantitative comparisons of outcomes in which human support versus those when no or minimal human support was provided. RESULTS The results of 31 meta-analyses (505 unique primary studies) were analyzed. The meta-analyses reported 45 effect sizes; almost half (n=22, 48%) of them showed that human-supported DMHIs were significantly more effective than unsupported DMHIs. A total of 9% (4/45) of effect sizes showed that unsupported DMHIs were significantly more effective. No clear patterns of results emerged regarding the efficacy of human support for the outcomes assessed (including anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, stress, and multiple outcomes). Human-supported DMHIs may be more effective than unsupported DMHIs for individuals with elevated mental health symptoms. There were no clear results regarding the type of training for those providing support. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the potential of human support in improving the effects of DMHIs. Specifically, evidence emerged for stronger effects of human support for individuals with greater symptom severity. There was considerable heterogeneity across meta-analyses in the level of detail regarding the nature of the interventions, population served, and support delivered, making it difficult to draw strong conclusions regarding the circumstances under which human support is most effective. Future research should emphasize reporting detailed descriptions of sample and intervention characteristics and describe the mechanism through which they believe the coach will be most useful for the DMHI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Selen Amado
- Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Megyn Jasman
- Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ariel Ervin
- Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jean E Rhodes
- Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Schröder T, Brudermann HCB, Kühn G, Sina C, Thaçi D, Nitschke M, König IR. Efficacy of the Digital Therapeutic sinCephalea in the prophylaxis of migraine in patients with episodic migraine: study protocol for a digital, randomized, open-label, standard treatment controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:997. [PMID: 36510284 PMCID: PMC9743661 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06933-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The German government implemented the Digital Healthcare Act in order to bring Digital Therapeutics into standard medical care. This is one of the first regulatory pathways to reimbursement for Digital Therapeutics (DTx). The Digital Therapeutic sinCephalea is intended to act as a prophylactic treatment of migraine by reducing the migraine days. For this, sinCephalea determines personalized nutritional recommendations using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data and enables the patients to follow a personalized low-glycemic nutrition. Migraine is a headache disorder with the highest socioeconomic burden. Emerging evidence shows that CGM-based personalized nutritional recommendations are of prophylactic use in episodic migraine. However, prospective data are yet missing to demonstrate clinical effectiveness. This study is designed to fill this gap. METHODS Patients between 18 and 65 years of age with proven migraine and a minimal disease severity of 3 migraine days per month are included. After a 4-week baseline phase as a pre-study, patients are randomized to the DTx intervention or a waiting-list control. The objective of the study is to show differences between the intervention and control groups regarding the change of migraine symptoms and of effects of migraine on daily life. DISCUSSION To our knowledge, this is the first systematic clinical trial with a fully digital program to enable patients with migraine to follow a personalized low-glycemic nutrition in order to reduce their number of migraine days and the migraine-induced impact on daily life. Designing a clinical study using a digital intervention includes some obstacles, which are addressed in this study approach. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Registry of Clinical Studies (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien) DRKS-ID DRKS00024657. Registered on March 8, 2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Schröder
- grid.412468.d0000 0004 0646 2097Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck & University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany ,Perfood GmbH, Am Spargelhof 2, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hanna C. B. Brudermann
- grid.4562.50000 0001 0057 2672Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, University of Lübeck, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Gianna Kühn
- Perfood GmbH, Am Spargelhof 2, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Christian Sina
- grid.412468.d0000 0004 0646 2097Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck & University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany ,grid.4562.50000 0001 0057 2672Medical Department 1, Section of Nutritional Medicine University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck & University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Diamant Thaçi
- grid.4562.50000 0001 0057 2672Institute and Comprehensive Center for Inflammation Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Matthias Nitschke
- grid.4562.50000 0001 0057 2672Department of Neurology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Inke R. König
- grid.4562.50000 0001 0057 2672Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, University of Lübeck, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
[How robust are studies of currently permanently included digital health applications (DiGA)? Methodological quality of studies demonstrating positive health care effects of DiGA]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EVIDENZ, FORTBILDUNG UND QUALITAT IM GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2022; 175:1-16. [PMID: 36437182 DOI: 10.1016/j.zefq.2022.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since September 2020 digital health applications (DiGA) can be prescribed by physicians and psychotherapists and are reimbursed within the German Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) system for the first time worldwide. For full reimbursement, the manufacturers have to provide evidence based on scientific studies that the DiGA can provide 'positive health care effects'. This study aims to analyze and evaluate the methodological quality of efficacy studies of DiGA in the categories 'Nervensystem' and 'Psyche' of the DiGA register that are permanently accepted. METHODS The methodological quality was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). The risk of bias was assessed for the primary endpoint of each study according to an intention-to-treat analysis. RESULTS Six DiGA were assessed for their methodological quality. Randomized controlled trials were conducted for all 6 DiGA that showed a high risk of bias, which was, in particular, due to a lack of blinding of the studies. In addition, drop-outs were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group in most studies. For most of the DiGA no published study protocol was available in advance so an analysis of a potential selective choice of the evaluation methodology was not possible. DISCUSSION For reasons of transparency, verifiability, and comprehensibility of the study results, registration in a study registry and, more importantly, the publication of study protocols should be mandatory before the start of the studies. In addition, studies should be blinded by comparing the DiGA with a 'sham application' to reduce the high risk of bias. Differences in the drop-out rates of the investigated studies could indicate a lack of efficacy of the treatment in the intervention group, (technical) problems in the application of the DiGA, or a lack of motivation of the participants. CONCLUSION The interim results 18 months after the introduction of DiGA in the German SHI system show that the studies on the evidence of the benefits of DiGA have a high potential for bias in certain areas. However, it should be positively emphasized that the manufacturers submitted randomized controlled trials to prove the medical benefit of the DiGAs investigated.
Collapse
|
21
|
Carli V, Petros NG, Hadlaczky G, Vitcheva T, Berchialla P, Bianchi S, Carletto S, Christinaki E, Citi L, Dinis S, Gentili C, Geraldes V, Giovinazzo L, Gonzalez-Martinez S, Meyer B, Ostacoli L, Ottaviano M, Ouakinin S, Papastylianou T, Paradiso R, Poli R, Rocha I, Settanta C, Scilingo EP, Valenza G. The NEVERMIND e-health system in the treatment of depressive symptoms among patients with severe somatic conditions: A multicentre, pragmatic randomised controlled trial. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 48:101423. [PMID: 35706482 PMCID: PMC9092507 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study assessed the effectiveness of the NEVERMIND e-health system, consisting of a smart shirt and a mobile application with lifestyle behavioural advice, mindfulness-based therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy, in reducing depressive symptoms among patients diagnosed with severe somatic conditions. Our hypothesis was that the system would significantly decrease the level of depressive symptoms in the intervention group compared to the control group. Methods This pragmatic, randomised controlled trial included 425 patients diagnosed with myocardial infarction, breast cancer, prostate cancer, kidney failure, or lower limb amputation. Participants were recruited from hospitals in Turin and Pisa (Italy), and Lisbon (Portugal), and were randomly assigned to either the NEVERMIND intervention or to the control group. Clinical interviews and structured questionnaires were administered at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. The primary outcome was depressive symptoms at 12 weeks measured by the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II). Intention-to-treat analyses included 425 participants, while the per-protocol analyses included 333 participants. This trial is registered in the German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00013391. Findings Patients were recruited between Dec 4, 2017, and Dec 31, 2019, with 213 assigned to the intervention and 212 to the control group. The sample had a mean age of 59·41 years (SD=10·70), with 44·24% women. Those who used the NEVERMIND system had statistically significant lower depressive symptoms at the 12-week follow-up (mean difference=-3·03, p<0·001; 95% CI -4·45 to -1·62) compared with controls, with a clinically relevant effect size (Cohen's d=0·39). Interpretation The results of this study show that the NEVERMIND system is superior to standard care in reducing and preventing depressive symptoms among patients with the studied somatic conditions. Funding The NEVERMIND project received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under grant agreement No. 689691.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Carli
- National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention of Mental Ill-Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nuhamin Gebrewold Petros
- National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention of Mental Ill-Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gergö Hadlaczky
- National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention of Mental Ill-Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tereza Vitcheva
- National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention of Mental Ill-Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paola Berchialla
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Bianchi
- Research Center "E.Piaggio" and Department of Information Engineering, School of Engineering, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Carletto
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Eirini Christinaki
- School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Luca Citi
- School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Sérgio Dinis
- Faculdade de Medicina and CCUL, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Claudio Gentili
- General Psychology Department, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Vera Geraldes
- Faculdade de Medicina and CCUL, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lorena Giovinazzo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Ostacoli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Manuel Ottaviano
- Life Supporting Technologies, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Ouakinin
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tasos Papastylianou
- School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | | | - Riccardo Poli
- School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Isabel Rocha
- Faculdade de Medicina and CCUL, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carmen Settanta
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Enzo Pasquale Scilingo
- Research Center "E.Piaggio" and Department of Information Engineering, School of Engineering, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gaetano Valenza
- Research Center "E.Piaggio" and Department of Information Engineering, School of Engineering, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of a New Online Self-Help Intervention for Depression among Korean College Students' Families. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042142. [PMID: 35206327 PMCID: PMC8872265 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Applying innovative online approaches to interventions for preventing depression is necessary. Since depressive emotions are typically shared within the family, the development of interventions involving family members is critical. This study thus aimed to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of a new online self-help intervention, MindGuide, among Korean college students’ families. We developed MindGuide, which integrates cognitive behavioral therapy with mindfulness and an emotional regulation approach. A one-group pretest–posttest design was used to measure the changes in the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, the Attitude Toward Suicide scale, and the Satisfaction With Life Scale before and after the intervention. Of the 34 families that began the program, completion rates were 88.2%, 85.3%, and 91.2% for fathers, mothers, and children, respectively. The findings indicated that the MindGuide program is feasible and acceptable for families of Korean college students. The results support the potential effect of MindGuide on reducing depression, improving positive attitudes toward suicide prevention, and enhancing family relationships in participants at risk of depression. However, future research is needed to thoroughly explore and evaluate the efficacy of the MindGuide program.
Collapse
|
23
|
Dahlhausen F, Zinner M, Bieske L, Ehlers JP, Boehme P, Fehring L. There's an app for that, but nobody's using it: Insights on improving patient access and adherence to digital therapeutics in Germany. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221104672. [PMID: 35811758 PMCID: PMC9260569 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221104672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile health applications and their subset digital therapeutics—defined as
evidence-based software interventions to prevent, manage, or treat a medical
condition—offer great potential to improve patient care. However, such
solutions often struggle to reach widespread adoption. Objective This study seeks to explore healthcare stakeholders’ roles and potential for
fostering patient access and adherence to evidence-based digital
therapeutics and thereby improve health outcomes from the perspective of
digital therapeutics developers and distributors. Methods Semi-structured qualitative and semiquantitative interviews were conducted
with 19 experts from developers and distributors of digital therapeutics in
Germany to discuss their perceived relevance of different healthcare
stakeholders and strategies in promoting patient access and adherence to
digital therapeutics. Results Healthcare professionals were found to have the greatest potential to promote
both access and patient adherence to digital therapeutics, followed by
health insurers, pharmaceutical companies, and patients themselves. In terms
of patient access, healthcare professionals have potential due to their
ability to prescribe digital therapeutics. Other stakeholders’ potential
stems from their capacity to influence healthcare professionals prescription
decision. In terms of patient adherence, only healthcare professionals are
of high relevance by onboarding patients and monitoring digital therapeutics
use. Most healthcare stakeholders currently do not fully leverage their
potential. Further educating healthcare professionals and simplifying
processes for them, empowering patients to seek treatment with digital
therapeutics, and designing digital therapeutics’ product features for
better adherence can help improve patient access and adherence. Conclusions Established healthcare stakeholders and digital therapeutics developers both
need to take action to improve patient access and adherence to digital
therapeutics. Several macro-level changes can support these efforts,
including broader information dissemination, improved financial incentives,
simplified prescription and activation processes, and a wider adoption of
blended care and pay-for-performance payment models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linn Bieske
- Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Jan P Ehlers
- Didactics and Educational Research in Healthcare, Medical Department, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Philip Boehme
- Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Leonard Fehring
- Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
- Helios University Hospital Wuppertal, Clinic for Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology and Diabetology, Heusnerstr. 40, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Osthues M, Kuttenreich AM, Volk GF, Dobel C, Strauss B, Altmann U, Guntinas-Lichius O. Continual rehabilitation motivation of patients with postparalytic facial nerve syndrome. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 279:481-491. [PMID: 34027598 PMCID: PMC8141409 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-021-06895-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the continued rehabilitation motivation in patients with postparalytic facial synkinesis (PFS). METHODS In this single-center cross-sectional survey, the multidimensional patient questionnaire for assessment of rehabilitation motivation (PAREMO-20) was used to assess the rehabilitation motivation. Associations Sunnybrook and Stennert index grading, Facial Clinimetric Evaluation (FaCE) survey, general quality of life (SF-36), Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9, technology commitment and affinity, and interest in further therapy were analyzed. RESULTS 69 adults with PFS (73% women; median age: 54 years) answered the survey. In comparison to prior treatment forms, there was a significant higher future interest in computer-based home facial training (p < 0.0001). For PAREMO Psychological burden subscore, SF36 Emotional role was the highest negative correlative factor (p < 0.0001). For PAREMO Physical burden subscore, SF-36 General health was the highest negative correlative factor (p = 0.018). Working (p = 0.033) and permanent relationship (p = 0.029) were the only independent factors correlated to PAREMO Social Support Subscore. Higher positive impacts of technology affinity was inversely correlated to PAREMO Knowledge subscore (p = 0.017). Lower SF-36 Role physical subscore p = 0.045) and a lower SF-36 General health (p = 0.013) were correlated to a higher PAREMO Skepticism subscore. CONCLUSIONS Patients with PFS seem to have a high facial motor and non-motor psychosocial impairment even after several facial therapies. Rehabilitation-related motivation increases with both, higher facial motor and non-motor dysfunction. Social and emotional dysfunction are drivers to be interested in innovative digital therapy forms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maike Osthues
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Anna-Maria Kuttenreich
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
- Facial Nerve Center Jena, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Gerd Fabian Volk
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
- Facial Nerve Center Jena, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Dobel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
- Facial Nerve Center Jena, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Strauss
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psycho-Oncology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Uwe Altmann
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psycho-Oncology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Orlando Guntinas-Lichius
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
- Facial Nerve Center Jena, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Netter AL, Beintner I, Brakemeier EL. Adding an app-based intervention to the Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP): Proof-of-Concept in Routine Outpatient Psychotherapy Treatment (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2021; 6:e35482. [PMID: 35943764 PMCID: PMC9399836 DOI: 10.2196/35482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) is an empirically supported psychotherapeutic treatment developed specifically for persistent depressive disorder. However, given the high rates of nonresponse and relapse, there is a need for optimization. Studies suggest that outcomes can be improved by increasing the treatment dose via, for example, the continuous web-based application of therapy strategies between sessions. The strong emphasis in CBASP on the therapeutic relationship, combined with limited therapeutic availabilities, encourages the addition of web-based interventions to face-to-face therapy in terms of blended therapy. Objective The aim of this study was to test an app-based intervention called CBASPath, which was designed to be used as a blended therapy tool. CBASPath offers 8 sequential modules with app-based exercises to facilitate additional engagement with the therapy content and a separate exercise to conduct situational analyses within the app at any time. Methods CBASPath was tested in an open pilot study as part of routine outpatient CBASP treatment. Participating patients were asked to report their use patterns and blended use (integrated use of the app as part of therapy sessions) at 3 assessment points over the 6-month test period and rate the usability and quality of and their satisfaction with CBASPath. Results The results of the pilot trial showed that 93% (12/13) of participants used CBASPath as a blended tool during their therapy and maintained this throughout the study period. Overall, they reported good usability and quality ratings along with high user satisfaction. All participants showed favorable engagement with CBASPath; however, the frequency of use differed widely among the participants and assessment points. Situational analysis was used by all participants, and the number of completed modules ranged from 1 to 7. All participants reported blended use, although the frequency of integration in the face-to-face sessions varied widely. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the digital augmentation of complex and highly interactive CBASP therapy in the form of blended therapy with CBASPath is feasible in routine outpatient care. Therapeutic guidance might contribute to high adherence and increase patient self-management. A few adjustments, such as saving entries directly in the app, could facilitate higher user engagement. A randomized controlled trial is now needed to investigate the efficacy and added value of this blended approach. In the long term, CBASPath could help optimize persistent depressive disorder treatment and reduce relapse by intensifying therapy and providing long-term patient support through the app.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lena Netter
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Eva-Lotta Brakemeier
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dahlhausen F, Zinner M, Bieske L, Ehlers JP, Boehme P, Fehring L. Physicians' Attitudes Toward Prescribable mHealth Apps and Implications for Adoption in Germany: Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e33012. [PMID: 34817385 PMCID: PMC8663495 DOI: 10.2196/33012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In October 2020, Germany became the first country, worldwide, to approve certain mobile health (mHealth) apps, referred to as DiGA (Digitale Gesundheitsanwendungen, in German, meaning digital health applications), for prescription with costs covered by standard statutory health insurance. Yet, this option has only been used to a limited extent so far. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate physicians’ and psychotherapists’ current attitudes toward mHealth apps, barriers to adoption, and potential remedies. Methods We conducted a two-stage sequential mixed methods study. In phase one, semistructured interviews were conducted with physicians and psychotherapists for questionnaire design. In phase two, an online survey was conducted among general practitioners, physicians, and psychotherapists. Results A total of 1308 survey responses by mostly outpatient-care general practitioners, physicians, and psychotherapists from across Germany who could prescribe DiGA were recorded, making this the largest study on mHealth prescriptions to date. A total of 62.1% (807/1299) of respondents supported the opportunity to prescribe DiGA. Improved adherence (997/1294, 77.0%), health literacy (842/1294, 65.1%), and disease management (783/1294, 60.5%) were most frequently seen as benefits of DiGA. However, only 30.3% (393/1299) of respondents planned to prescribe DiGA, varying greatly by medical specialty. Professionals are still facing substantial barriers, such as insufficient information (1135/1295, 87.6%), reimbursement for DiGA-related medical services (716/1299, 55.1%), medical evidence (712/1298, 54.9%), legal uncertainties (680/1299, 52.3%), and technological uncertainties (658/1299, 50.7%). To support professionals who are unsure of prescribing DiGA, extended information campaigns (1104/1297, 85.1%) as well as recommendations from medical associations (1041/1297, 80.3%) and medical colleagues (1024/1297, 79.0%) were seen as the most impactful remedies. Conclusions To realize the benefits from DiGA through increased adoption, additional information sharing about DiGA from trusted bodies, reimbursement for DiGA-related medical services, and further medical evidence are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Dahlhausen
- Didactics and Educational Research in Health Care, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Maximillian Zinner
- Didactics and Educational Research in Health Care, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Linn Bieske
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Jan P Ehlers
- Didactics and Educational Research in Health Care, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Philip Boehme
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Leonard Fehring
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Meyer B, Utter GL, Hillman C. A Personalized, Interactive, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-Based Digital Therapeutic (MODIA) for Adjunctive Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder: Development Study. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e31173. [PMID: 34623309 PMCID: PMC8538017 DOI: 10.2196/31173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid use disorder (OUD) is characterized by the inability to control opioid use despite attempts to stop use and negative consequences to oneself and others. The burden of opioid misuse and OUD is a national crisis in the United States with substantial public health, social, and economic implications. Although medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has demonstrated efficacy in the management of OUD, access to effective counseling and psychosocial support is a limiting factor and a significant problem for many patients and physicians. Digital therapeutics are an innovative class of interventions that help prevent, manage, or treat diseases by delivering therapy using software programs. These applications can circumvent barriers to uptake, improve treatment adherence, and enable broad delivery of evidence-based management strategies to meet service gaps. However, few digital therapeutics specifically targeting OUD are available, and additional options are needed. OBJECTIVE To this end, we describe the development of the novel digital therapeutic MODIA. METHODS MODIA was developed by an international, multidisciplinary team that aims to provide effective, accessible, and sustainable management for patients with OUD. Although MODIA is aligned with principles of cognitive behavioral therapy, it was not designed to present any 1 specific treatment and uses a broad range of evidence-based behavior change techniques drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing. RESULTS MODIA uses proprietary software that dynamically tailors content to the users' responses. The MODIA program comprises 24 modules or "chats" that patients are instructed to work through independently. Patient responses dictate subsequent content, creating a "simulated dialogue" experience between the patient and program. MODIA also includes brief motivational text messages that are sent regularly to prompt patients to use the program and help them transfer therapeutic techniques into their daily routines. Thus, MODIA offers individuals with OUD a custom-tailored, interactive digital psychotherapy intervention that maximizes the personal relevance and emotional impact of the interaction. CONCLUSIONS As part of a clinician-supervised MAT program, MODIA will allow more patients to begin psychotherapy concurrently with opioid maintenance treatment. We expect access to MODIA will improve the OUD management experience and provide sustainable positive outcomes for patients.
Collapse
|
28
|
Holtdirk F, Mehnert A, Weiss M, Mayer J, Meyer B, Bröde P, Claus M, Watzl C. Results of the Optimune trial: A randomized controlled trial evaluating a novel Internet intervention for breast cancer survivors. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251276. [PMID: 33961667 PMCID: PMC8104369 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION After the acute treatment phase, breast cancer patients often experience low quality of life and impaired mental health, which could potentially be improved by offering cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and addressing exercise and dietary habits. However, CBT and other behavioural interventions are rarely available beyond the acute treatment phase. Internet-based interventions could bridge such treatment gaps, given their flexibility and scalability. In this randomized controlled trial (RCT), we investigated the effects of such an intervention ("Optimune") over three months. METHODS This RCT included 363 female breast cancer survivors (age range = 30-70), recruited from the community, who had completed the active treatment phase. Inclusion criteria were: breast cancer diagnosis less than 5 years ago and acute treatment completion at least 1 month ago. Participants were randomly assigned to (1) an intervention group (n = 181), in which they received care as usual (CAU) plus 12-month access to Optimune immediately after randomization, or (2) a control group (n = 182), in which they received CAU and Optimune after a delay of 3 months. Primary endpoints were quality of life (QoL), physical activity, and dietary habits at three months. We hypothesized that intervention group participants would report better QoL, more physical activity, and improved dietary habits after 3 months. RESULTS Intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses revealed significant effects on QoL (d = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.07-0.48) and dietary habits (d = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.15-0.56), but the effect on physical exercise was not significant (d = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.10-0.51). DISCUSSION These findings suggest the effectiveness of Optimune, a new CBT-based Internet intervention for breast cancer survivors, in facilitating improvements in quality of life and dietary habits. Efforts to disseminate this intervention more broadly may be warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03643640. Registered August 23rd 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03643640.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anja Mehnert
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology University Hospital of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Mario Weiss
- Research Department, Gaia Group, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Björn Meyer
- Research Department, Gaia Group, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Bröde
- Leibniz Research Centre (IfADo), Technical University of Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Maren Claus
- Leibniz Research Centre (IfADo), Technical University of Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Carsten Watzl
- Leibniz Research Centre (IfADo), Technical University of Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lord SE, Campbell ANC, Brunette MF, Cubillos L, Bartels SM, Torrey WC, Olson AL, Chapman SH, Batsis JA, Polsky D, Nunes EV, Seavey KM, Marsch LA. Workshop on Implementation Science and Digital Therapeutics for Behavioral Health. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e17662. [PMID: 33507151 PMCID: PMC7878106 DOI: 10.2196/17662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital therapeutics can overcome many of the barriers to translation of evidence-based treatment for substance use, mental health, and other behavioral health conditions. Delivered via nearly ubiquitous platforms such as the web, smartphone applications, text messaging, and videoconferencing, digital therapeutics can transcend the time and geographic boundaries of traditional clinical settings so that individuals can access care when and where they need it. There is strong empirical support for digital therapeutic approaches for behavioral health, yet implementation science with regard to scaling use of digital therapeutics for behavioral health is still in its early stages. In this paper, we summarize the proceedings of a day-long workshop, "Implementation Science and Digital Therapeutics," sponsored and hosted by the Center for Technology and Behavioral Health at Dartmouth College. The Center for Technology and Behavioral Health is an interdisciplinary P30 Center of Excellence funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, with the mission of promoting state-of-the-technology and state-of-the-science for the development, evaluation, and sustainable implementation of digital therapeutic approaches for substance use and related conditions. Workshop presentations were grounded in current models of implementation science. Directions and opportunities for collaborative implementation science research to promote broad adoption of digital therapeutics for behavioral health are offered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Lord
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Aimee N C Campbell
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mary F Brunette
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Leonardo Cubillos
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Sophia M Bartels
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - William C Torrey
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Ardis L Olson
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Steven H Chapman
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - John A Batsis
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Daniel Polsky
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Edward V Nunes
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Katherine M Seavey
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Lisa A Marsch
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
LOPES RT, SVACINA MA, GÓMEZ-PENEDO JM, ROUSSOS A, MEYER B, BERGER T. Who seeks Internet-based interventions for depression in Brazil? ESTUDOS DE PSICOLOGIA (CAMPINAS) 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-0275202138e190166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Specific psychological treatments for depressive disorders delivered on the Internet have shown effectiveness and presented advantages over face-to-face treatments (potentially less expensive, flexible schedules, available in remote areas). This paper aims to describe the characteristics of those who sought help from an online self-guided intervention for depression and to explore hypotheses about predictors of enrollment to the program. Based on a sample of 282 of individuals who filled in screening questionnaires, we verified that the respondents were mainly female, were on average 34.36 years old, were primarily recruited through Facebook, had been previously diagnosed by mental health professionals, presented moderate self-efficacy perception, and had moderately severe symptoms of depression. Respondents who reported comorbid conditions were more likely to attend enrollment interviews, and being in treatment or not did not influence attendance. Such characterization may provide strategies to reach more people and to optimize the design of interventions targeting help-seeking depressed individuals in Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Thomas BERGER
- University of Bern, Psychology Institute, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Murillo LA, Follo E, Smith A, Balestrier J, Bevvino DL. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Online Educational Modules and Interactive Workshops in Alleviating Symptoms of Mild to Moderate Depression: A Pilot Trial. J Prim Care Community Health 2020; 11:2150132720971158. [PMID: 33225804 PMCID: PMC7686590 DOI: 10.1177/2150132720971158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Depression is a common health concern in primary care with barriers to
treatment well documented in the literature. Innovative online
psychoeducational approaches to address barriers to care have been well
received and can be cost effective. This pilot trial evaluated the
effectiveness of an online psychoeducation curriculum intended to alleviate
symptoms of depression while utilizing minimal staff resources. Methods A small (n = 29) randomized control pilot study was conducted. Online
psychoeducational content was delivered in 5 to 10-minute videos over
8 weeks. Participants engaged in moderated discussions on workshop topics.
The Patient Health Care Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to measure pre/post
scores. Two Likert scale questions were used to determine subjective changes
in understanding of depression and coping skills. Results Paired T-test analysis showed an average PHQ-9 improvement
of 4.37 (P = .01) in the intervention arm and 1.81
(P = .172) in the control group. No significant
difference in delta PHQ-9 score was found between groups via difference in
difference analysis (P = .185). Effect size was 0.59. No
improvement in Likert scores for question 1 or 2 were detected by paired
T test in either group. Conclusion This pilot trial of interactive online psychoeducational content shows
initial promise as there was a significant improvement in PHQ-9 scores
within the intervention arm. The comparison of delta scores between
intervention and control arms was not statistically significant although
this is likely due to the underpowered nature of the pilot trial. This data
trend justifies the need for a larger validation trial of this
intervention.
Collapse
|
32
|
Neumayr C, Voderholzer U, Schlegl S. Psych-APP-Therapie: Smartphonebasierte Interventionen in der Psychotherapie – Eine systematische Übersichtsarbeit. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2020. [DOI: 10.1159/000510954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Hintergrund:</i></b> Technologiebasierte Interventionen haben in der Psychotherapie an Bedeutung gewonnen. Ein versorgungsrelevanter Ansatz sind Mental Health Apps. Ziel dieser systematischen Übersichtsarbeit ist es (1) international evaluierte Apps zu den Störungsbildern Depressionen, Angststörungen und Essstörungen zu identifizieren, (2) deren Verfügbarkeit in deutschen App-Stores sowie (3) in deutscher Sprache zu prüfen und (4) ihre Effektivitätsergebnisse aus randomisiert-kontrollierten (Pilot-)Studien (RCTs) darzustellen. <b><i>Methode:</i></b> Die Übersichtsarbeit wurde in Anlehnung an das PRISMA Statement durchgeführt und ausgewertet. Eine systematische Recherche (2007–2018) der Datenbanken PubMed, PsychINFO sowie PSYNDEX wurde durchgeführt. Zudem fand eine Beurteilung der methodischen Qualität sowie der Effektivitätsergebnisse der (Pilot-)RCTs statt. <b><i>Ergebnisse:</i></b> Es wurden 2’571 Abstracts identifiziert und 47 Publikationen eingeschlossen (<i>N</i> = 32 unterschiedliche Apps; <i>N</i> = 24 [Pilot-]RCTs). Die Qualität der (Pilot-)RCTs ist überwiegend als gut bis moderat einzustufen. Die Ergebnisse waren heterogen (keine bis große Effekte [Cohens <i>d</i>] zwischen den Gruppen: –0,01; KI [–0,36; 0,34] bis 1,49; KI [1,00; 1,99]). Vier Apps mit einer Evaluation durch (Pilot-)RCTs sind in den deutschen App-Stores verfügbar – eine in deutscher Sprache. <b><i>Schlussfolgerungen:</i></b> Es liegt international eine Vielzahl von ersten App-Evaluationen zu den Störungsbildern vor, die Verfügbarkeit ausreichend evaluierter deutschsprachiger Apps in den deutschen App-Stores ist aber extrem limitiert. Englischsprachige, bereits evaluierte Apps könnten in das Deutsche übersetzt und – genauso wie schon verfügbare, aber nicht evaluierte deutschsprachige Apps – in RCTs inkl. Katamnesedaten evaluiert werden. So könnten smartphonebasierte Interventionen im Rahmen des “Digitalen-Versorgungs-Gesetzes” als ergänzendes Element in der Psychotherapie an Bedeutung gewinnen.
Collapse
|
33
|
Klein JP, Barthel B, Berger T, Moritz S. Feasibility, effectiveness and safety of the self-management intervention deprexis in routine medical care: Results of an uncontrolled observational study. Internet Interv 2020; 22:100341. [PMID: 32874927 PMCID: PMC7450999 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2020.100341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous RCTs have demonstrated the effectiveness of internet-based self-management interventions (SMIs) in the treatment of depressive symptoms. These studíes often recruit outside routine clinical practice. For the present study, we investigated the feasibility, effectiveness and safety of an SMI (deprexis) in routine medical care using a non-interventional design. METHODS A total of 104 patients with a depressive disorder (60.58% female, mean age 45.82 yrs) were recruited in 25 outpatient practices in Germany (mostly psychiatric practices, n = 16). They received 12 week access to the SMI in addition to their usual care (76.0% took concomitant antidepressant medication). Guidance could optionally be offered by the treating physician. The effectiveness of the intervention was assessed using the clinician-rated short version of the Montgomery Asberg-Depression Scale (svMADRS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), a self-rating for depressive symptoms. Outcomes were assessed at baseline as well as at weeks 3, 6, 9 and 12. RESULTS Most patients reported using the intervention at least once (n = 87, 83.6%), among these users the mean number of sessions was 18.05 (SD = 11.33). Only a minority of patients received the guided version of the intervention (n = 7, 8.0%). The severity of depressive symptoms decreased significantly over the observation period from 29.72 (SD = 10.03) to 15.73 (SD = 9.74) for the svMADRS (Cohen's d = 1.42, 95% CI 0.08-2.76) and from 15.20 (SD = 5.03) to 8.77 (SD = 5.03) for the PHQ-9 (d = 1.29, 95% CI 0.60-1.97). DISCUSSION The size of the pre-post effect on depressive symptoms observed in this study is comparable to the pre-post effect size reported in an RCT using the same intervention in patients suffering from depressive symptoms of the same severity. Limitations of this study include the lack of a control group and the fact that the recruitment rate was far lower than expected. CONCLUSION This non-interventional study conducted in outpatient practices confirms results from numerous RCTs. Taken together, these data show that deprexis can be used effectively and safely in the routine care of depressed outpatients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Klein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Lübeck University, Lübeck, Germany,Corresponding author at: Lübeck University, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany.
| | | | - Thomas Berger
- Bern University, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Switzerland
| | - Steffen Moritz
- Eppendorf University Medical Center, Department and Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Lopes RT, Meyer B, Berger T, Svacina MA. Effectiveness of an internet-based self-guided program to treat depression in a sample of Brazilian users: a study protocol. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY 2020; 42:322-328. [PMID: 32159711 PMCID: PMC7236154 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2019-0582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Although psychological treatments for depressive disorders are available, they are often expensive or inaccessible for many. Web-based interventions that require minimal or no contact with therapists have been shown effective. To the best of our knowledge, no study using this treatment format has been conducted in Brazil. The Deprexis program was designed using empirically established principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce depressive symptoms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Deprexis in Brazil. This randomized controlled trial will include 128 Brazilians with clinically significant depression symptoms or who have been diagnosed with depressive disorder (major depressive disorder or dysthymia), recruited over the internet (Brazilian forums, social networks, or e-mail lists). Individuals with other psychiatric diagnoses that require significant attention (e.g., bipolar disorder, psychosis) will not be included in the trial. Participants will be randomly assigned to 1) treatment as usual plus immediate access to Deprexis or 2) treatment as usual plus delayed access to Deprexis (after 8 weeks). Participants will be able to obtain other treatment types in addition to the online intervention. If found effective, this web-based intervention would increase the evidence-based care options for depression treatment in Brazil. RBR-6kk3bx, UTN U1111-1212-8998.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|