active Assessment
Virtual Solutions for Anxiety and Depression
Evidence Protocol Published
Last Updated
January 22, 2025
Conditions
Anxiety, Depression
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PHTI is assessing the clinical and economic impact of virtual solutions for anxiety and depression.
Area overview
An estimated 1 in 5 adults in the United States experienced symptoms of anxiety or depression, with rates increasing drastically in the past few years.
Anxiety and depression have traditionally been managed through a combination of psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy), pharmacological treatment (e.g., antidepressants), and lifestyle changes
In recent years, a number of digital health companies have built solutions designed to address anxiety and depression using virtual psychotherapy, self-guided learning modules, and/or patient self-management support and education. These solutions use technology to deliver interventions and exercises through interactive platforms, both with and without a licensed clinician. Some of these solutions are designed to be used alongside usual care from a licensed clinician, while others act as an alternative to traditional care. With long wait times and nearly half (47%) of the U.S. population living in a mental health workforce shortage area, these solutions are also developed to address access challenges.
PHTI is assessing virtual anxiety and depression management solutions to determine the clinical effectiveness and budget impact of these solutions.
Why assess virtual solutions for anxiety and depression?
- In the United States, an estimated 1 in 5 adults experienced symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2022.
- Almost $240 billion was spent in the US on treatment for mental health conditions in 2020, about 40% by private payers.
- In recent years, many digital health companies have been launched to expand access to care for anxiety and depression through self-guided therapy, remote therapy, and/or patient self-management support and education.
- These solutions leverage technology to deliver evidence-based interventions through interactive platforms and exercises. This provides individuals alternative methods to taking an active role in their care.
- Given the burden of disease and impact on the healthcare system, payers, providers, and patients are eager to understand which virtual anxiety and depression solutions increase access and provide meaningful clinical results for patients at a lower cost.
Downloads & Resources
October 2024
Methodology for a Systematic Literature Review of digital health technologies for anxiety and depressionInternational prospective register of system reviews (PROSPERO), National Institute for Health and Care Research
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