Integrating Digital Therapeutics With Mental Healthcare Delivery
Abstract
This overview explores digital therapeutics (DTx) for mental health and their use in clinical practice for mental health service delivery. DTx provide a novel medium to receive mental health care that can meet the needs and interests of some patients. DTx, however, may have several barriers and opportunities to use. We examine the emergence of various DTx, focusing on DTx for depression and anxiety as an example, and describe benefits and drawbacks. The use of DTx faces numerous complexities including regulatory factors, societal influences, individual factors, and the challenge of sustained engagement and behavior change. The vignette of Jessica’s journey further underscores the need for more DTx solutions, integrating psychological, behavioral, and environmental aspects of mental health management.
Keywords: Digital Therapeutics, DTx, Digital Mental Health, Digital Interventions, Mobile Health