A Mobile and Virtual Reality Intervention for Adolescent Depression

Depression, the most common mental health disorder among adolescents, is a critical health problem within the US. In this study, the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of Limbix Spark, a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)- based mobile app + virtual reality (VR) program for helping adolescents live well with depression will be investigated. This program is specifically designed around behavioral activation theory, the idea that completing activities that make a patient feel pleasure or provide a sense of mastery are effective in reducing symptoms of depression. The program involves the use of both VR and a mobile app that include CBT components like psychological assessments, psychoeducation, and skills training. 30 participants aged 12-21 years old with mild to severe depressive symptoms and smartphone access will be enrolled in this study. The primary efficacy outcome measures will be depressive symptoms with anxiety symptoms, functional outcomes, and dimensional scales of positive and negative affect and behavioral activation serving as secondary outcome measures. Qualitative and quantitative feedback on the use of the VR + mobile app (ease of use, comfort, willingness to use again) will be assessed using questionnaires. Engagement and adherence to the program will be assessed by assessing VR and app usage.