NHS-approved online therapies, including treatment for childhood anxiety, are demonstrating significant potential in increasing access to mental health care. Research from the University of Oxford, with support from ARC Oxford Thames Valley (OxTV) and PenARC, focused on translating treatments into digital formats and could improve patient recovery outcomes.
Enhancing Mental Health Access
Four online therapies for anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including a program for childhood anxiety, are now available through the NHS. These digital treatments have shown positive results in clinical trials and could greatly increase the number of patients receiving effective care.
With one in five children and young people in England affected by mental health issues, there is an urgent need for accessible and effective treatment options. Professor Creswell, Professor of Developmental Clinical Psychology and NIHR Senior Investigator at the University of Oxford, comments:
“Recent surveys indicate a rise in anxiety problems among children and young people. Our online platform, developed with crucial support from the ARC OxTV, provides practical tools with guidance and support to help address these issues from home. Parents and guardians are trained to deliver the treatment, with support from a therapist, making it a flexible and family-centred approach.”
Proven Effectiveness
Clinical trials have shown the effectiveness of these digital therapies, with the childhood anxiety program demonstrating strong outcomes. A significant number of young people who completed the treatment showed a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
Professor Richard Hobbs, Director of ARC OxTV, added:
“We’re pleased to see this important mental health research, supported by the ARC, being translated into accessible digital therapies for NHS patients. Prof Creswell’s work exemplifies our commitment to delivering real-world impacts that improve health outcomes.”
Nationwide Launch
Since September 2024, these online therapies have been rolled out across NHS trusts, mental health services, schools, and colleges. More than 20 regions have already embraced the program.
Dr. Oliver Harrison, CEO of Koa Health, the company licensed to deliver these therapies across the NHS, said:
“We are excited to collaborate with the University of Oxford to bring these innovative, clinically validated digital therapies to NHS patients across the UK. By using technology to deliver evidence-based interventions at scale, we aim to improve access to mental health care and support the NHS in providing timely, effective treatment for those who need it.”
Progressing Mental Health Care
The introduction of these digital therapies marks a significant advancement in addressing the growing need for mental health support and improving access to proven, evidence-based interventions.