Online programs for depression

Although depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, a minority of people experiencing clinically relevant depression symptoms seek professional help. The accessibility of evidence-based online treatment programs for depression, also referred to as internet interventions, can overcome many of the traditional barriers to care seeking. Online programs are typically designed to treat symptoms of depression, and are usually aimed at individuals experiencing mild-to-moderate clinical symptoms but have also been shown to be effective in treating severe depression and preventing onset and relapse. Online programs typically adapt the principles and strategies from cognitive behavioral therapy and related evidence-based forms of therapy and can be completed in either a self-guided or clinician-supported format. Emerging research is focusing on barriers to the uptake and completion of online programs, as well as the use of new digital technologies to further understand, monitor, treat, and prevent depression.