Effectiveness of mobile-based cognitive behavioural therapy for adolescent depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE: Adolescent depression is a significant public health concern, with prevalence rates increasing globally over recent years. Mobile-based cognitive behavioural therapy applications are increasingly used to address adolescent depression, but their effectiveness remains unclear. This study evaluated the impact of mobile-based cognitive behavioural therapy apps on depressive symptoms in this population, with secondary analyses examining anxiety, quality of life, usability and adverse events. METHOD: = 1127). Studies reporting depressive symptom outcomes were included in meta-analyses using a random-effects model. RESULTS: = 0.37). Adverse event rates were lower in the intervention groups (risk ratio = 0.68). CONCLUSION: Mobile-based cognitive behavioural therapy is a moderately effective short-term intervention for adolescent and young adult depression. These findings support its integration into mental health service delivery, although strategies to sustain long-term benefits are needed.