Data shows that CBT-based apps are going to meet the growing demand for mental health services

The increasing demand for mental health services in the US has spurred the emergence of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) based apps that can provide the necessary psychological support to whoever needs it. While the efficacy of such apps is debated, recent studies have validated their effectiveness in treating a variety of mental health issues.

Nearly 1 in 5 adults in the US suffer from a mental illness, an equivalent of over 50 million Americans, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Over half of them do not receive treatment.

The COVID-19 pandemic spiked the number of people reporting feelings of stress, anxiety, and loneliness. In a 2020 report, 40.9% of adults admitted they’d experienced at least one mental health issue, including anxiety, depression, and pandemic-related stress. Symptoms of anxiety and depression increased considerably in the US in April–June of 2020, compared with the same period in 2019, another report reveals. 

Growing demand met by technological advances

With the increasing demand for psychological support, there has been a rise in technology-based alternatives like remote or self-guided psychotherapy. According to the American Psychological Association, 96% of psychologists have been treating their patients remotely since the start of the pandemic. Such a format is more accessible, more affordable, and as effective as conventional face-to-face therapy. 

Today, app stores are overflowing with mental health apps. It’s estimated that out of 325,000 health and wellness apps available on app stores, 10,000 are designed to aid mental health, making it the fastest-growing app category.

Many of the available mental health apps offer psychological support based on CB – a type of therapy that is gaining popularity due to its extensive applicability and hands-on approach to treatment.

What is CBT?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, often short-term type of psychological treatment that addresses the patient’s negative thinking patterns that have an adverse influence on their behavior and response to challenging situations. It encourages patients to change their thought patterns and develop coping skills so they can deal with their environment in a healthier way.

CBT has been proven effective for a wide range of mental health issues, from depression and anxiety to eating disorders and marital problems. This type of treatment often involves “homework,” which enables patients to practice their newly acquired skills outside therapy. And, since it’s a goal-oriented treatment, results can be measured fairly easily. All of this could be the reason so many apps draw on the CBT approach.

Is app-delivered CBT effective?

While the efficacy of remotely conducted CBT has been debated, a study of 105 participants treated with internet-based CBT has shown that 80 (76.2%) of them did not feel the absence of face-to-face contact with their therapist, while 99 (94.3%) would recommend the method to others. Another study of 60 participants who were treated with CBT over the phone concluded that all the treated participants showed significant improvement and maintained it at the 9-month follow-up.

Researchers at the University of Bolton published a review of CBT-based apps that highlights the strong evidence of the efficacy of self-guided CBT delivered over mobile apps, with multiple studies demonstrating positive results in treating depression and negative thoughts.

“This approach is not difficult to implement in an app. One of the goals of CBT is to give the patient the right tools that they can use on their own. This means that, unlike other approaches that require, let’s say, reflection, a person treated with CBT doesn’t need a psychotherapist by their side.” – psychotherapist Dainius Jakučionis, M.D., one of the creators of the Sensa app comments.

While the efficacy of mental health apps is evident, experts maintain that, in severe cases, such apps might not be enough to help someone struggling with a mental health issue. “You can’t use such apps to treat severe cases like PTSD. These apps are suitable for people with mild depression, anxiety, and stress.” – Jakučionis notes. 

The expert explains that someone whose daily functioning has already been impaired by their mental struggles should see a psychotherapist or other mental health care professional. “Mental health apps like Sensa are meant for people who are facing difficulties but still go to work, eat, and have relationships – their daily lives aren’t disrupted, even if they are not happy with them.” – Jakučionis adds.

With health care resources stretched to their limits amidst the pandemic, apps like Sensa could be the solution that will meet the growing demand for mental health support and help those suffering from symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress alleviate their struggles. 

About Sensa Health

Sensa Health is a Kilo Health product which has an  app  based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and is designed to work as a mental health assistant for individuals. It provides never-ending, therapy-based guidance to mental health. Using this application, the person can follow a personalized mental wellness program, complete daily tasks, reflect on their mood, and assess their mental health state. 

Finally, for those who need fast help, Sensa provides plenty of quick relief exercises that help with panic attacks and other related anxiety issues.