Website and Mobile Application-Based Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults with Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine previous research on website and mobile application-based interventions for adolescents and young adults with depression and to evaluate their effectiveness on depressive symptoms.

Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library CENTRAL databases were searched and 22 articles were identified from 16 randomized controlled trial studies.

Results: The most frequently used intervention strategy was Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT). Most studies (n = 14) used websites. Two studies used mobile applications. Meta-analysis revealed a significant effect of overall website and mobile application-based interventions on depression at posttest. Subgroup meta-analyses showed that ICBT and website-based interventions had significant effects on depression at posttest. However, there was no significant effect at follow-up assessments.

Conclusion: Website and mobile application-based interventions, specifically ICBT, are recommended for adolescents and young adults with depression. Further randomized controlled trials conducting follow-up assessments are required to confirm their long-term effects.