NHS Dorset said mental health apps could avoid the need for traditional treatment
One county has released a list of free apps it says may help prevent poor mental health among young people.
NHS Dorset said the library, which was overseen by an app review company, could prevent people from needing other treatments.
However, the app is not meant to replace traditional treatments.
Mr Thane, from the mental health charity, warned that while digital therapy could be helpful for some people, it could be counterproductive.
Project manager Christian Telfer said the free app is “the best thing out there.”
of dorset library includes apps such as Move Mood, which aims to improve depression, and Calm Harm, which aims to prevent self-harm.
NHS Dorset project manager Christian Telfer said: “These apps are what we think are the best, and those with less evidence are downgraded.”
“They are intended to either prevent people from needing help or to supplement medical treatment.”
Michael Pagan, from Dorset Public Health, said the apps offer young people “a safe, high-quality and diverse solution to support self-care and wellbeing”.
The list was compiled by Orcha (Care and Health App Review Authority), a company that checks apps for issues such as insufficient information, lack of security updates, and awareness of regulatory requirements.
NHS advisory body NICE said in March that eight online therapies “have the potential to provide effective treatment” but more evidence is needed.
NHS Dorset said some patients in Dorset were being offered the Silver Cloud option, although some of it was not free.
“Digital technology may be helpful for people seeking an explanation for their emotions, anxieties and pain,” said Sane CEO Marjorie Wallace.
“However, there is a risk that people will diagnose themselves and accept treatments that may not be helpful without contact with someone they trust.
“Our experience with people who contact us is that self-diagnosis and self-management techniques do not always reach the layers of their inner psychological distress, leaving them feeling even more dangerous and alone. There is a possibility.”
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