Is computer-guided self-help of added value for help-seeking adolescents with depressive symptoms?
This article, written in Dutch, discusses an RCT on the effectiveness of computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) delivered through the SPARX programme for help-seeking adolescents with depressive symptoms.
Summary
This commentary discusses the RCT by Merry et al. (2012) on the effectiveness of the SPARX programme, an interactive CBT-based game, in adolescents aged 12 to 19 who actively sought help for depressive symptoms. The results show that SPARX is no less effective than usual care in treating depression. Computerised self-help therefore appears to be a feasible and accessible alternative for young people who are difficult to reach through traditional mental health services.
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Reference
Van Daele, T. (2012). Computergestuurde zelfhulp een meerwaarde voor hulpzoekende adolescenten met depressieve symptomen? Minerva: Tijdschrift voor Evidence-based Medicine, 11(10), 126-127.