A Review of Mobile Applications for Psychological Interventions Concerning Depressive Symptoms in Japan

Abstract

There are thousands of mobile applications (apps) that deliver information and offer daily support and intervention. The aim of this study is to identify the current state of apps that assess/treat depressive symptoms or prevent depression, within the official Android and iOS app stores in Japan. The 47 apps for depression that are available for download from these app stores were evaluated by the App Evaluation Model, in terms of their background information, risk/privacy and security, evidence, ease of use, and interoperability. In addition, we evaluated their primary purpose, technological components, and cognitive-behavioral therapy components. Findings suggest that few apps have been developed that are evidence-based, secure, and provide the services that users expect. In future, it will be necessary to create a framework for developing and disseminating more effective apps. This study is the first review of apps for depression that are currently available in Japan. Hence, it seeks to facilitate the creation of a framework for such apps.