Research Highlights the Antidepressive Benefits of Smartphone Apps

(Newswire.net — September 29, 2021) Orlando, FL — Today, more and more people are struggling with mental health issues like depression. There are hundreds of millions of individuals with this condition worldwide. 

A study was carried out and published in World Psychiatry. 

It was carried out by the scientists from Australia’s National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM), Harvard Medical School, The University of Manchester, and the Black Dog Institute in Australia.

The investigators performed this study in an effort to examine the impacts or efficacy of smartphone-based treatments for depression.

This new Australian-led research has added to present evidence that smartphone apps are an effective treatment option for depression. 

In this research, the investigators systematically reviewed 18 randomized controlled trials, which examined a total of 22 different smartphone-delivered mental health interventions. The studies involved more than 3400 female and male subjects who were between the ages of 18 to 59 years. 

It is further worth noting that had a range of mental health symptoms as well as conditions, which include mild to moderate depression, major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and insomnia.

The lead author of the paper is NICM postdoctoral research fellow Joseph Firth.

“The majority of people in developed countries own smartphones, including younger people who are increasingly affected by depression,” said Mr. Firth.

It is suggested that in combination with the rapid technological advances in this area, these devices show an impressive potential in providing instantly accessible and highly effective treatments for depression.

They may also be useful in lessening the societal and economic burden of this condition worldwide.

“The data shows us that smartphones can help people monitor, understand and manage their own mental health. Using apps as part of an ‘integrative medicine’ approach for depression has been demonstrated to be particularly useful for improving mood and tackling symptoms in these patients,” said Professor Sarris.

Professor Jerome Sarris is co-author, NICM deputy director.

There is an increasing number of studies looking into the various aspects of this condition. Experts have long been recommending proper nutrition to combat mental health issues like depression. Interestingly, some nutrients like B vitamins may be helpful. 

B vitamins have been found to be helpful in enhancing symptoms of depression and anxiety. A study has even shown that 90-day supplementation of B vitamins aid in reducing stress and mental fatigue. 

Some other studies have shown these nutrients worked in enhancing cognitive health. They are obtained widely today through supplementation, such as the use of Divine Bounty B Vitamin Complex. 

It contains Choline, Pantothenic acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Niacin, Riboflavin, Thiamin, and vitamin B6 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B07414752B).