Florida State University Secures $2M to Develop Anxiety Treatment App
Tallahassee, Friday, 6 December 2024.
Florida State University receives over $2 million to create a mobile app for anxiety and PTSD treatment, emphasizing accessibility and innovation in mental health therapy.
Groundbreaking Initiative for Mental Health Innovation
Florida State University researcher Brad Schmidt has secured over $2 million in funding from the National Institute of Mental Health to develop a revolutionary mobile application targeting anxiety and PTSD treatment [1]. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as anxiety disorders affect more than 40 million adults and approximately 7% of children ages 3-17 annually in the United States [1]. The project represents a significant step forward in digital therapeutics, a field that has seen substantial growth with 23 FDA-approved solutions for mental and behavioral health as of December 2024 [2].
Technology Meets Traditional Therapy
The development team is partnering with Oui Therapeutics to create a self-guided treatment app and chatbot specifically designed for individuals with anxiety sensitivity [1]. This approach aligns with current trends in digital therapeutics, where AI-powered solutions have shown promising results, with recent studies demonstrating approximately 21.15 % improvement in anxiety symptoms through similar digital interventions [3]. The app aims to provide less invasive treatment options compared to traditional cognitive behavioral therapies, making mental health support more accessible to those who might be hesitant to seek conventional treatment [1].
Evidence-Based Development and Regulatory Compliance
The project emphasizes scientific rigor, with trials planned to measure symptom reduction using a PTSD checklist based on American Psychological Association guidelines [1]. This methodical approach is crucial, as digital therapeutic solutions must demonstrate clear positive health impacts to meet international standards [2]. Oui Therapeutics’ commitment to seeking FDA approval ensures the app will undergo proper regulatory scrutiny [1], joining the ranks of other successful digital therapeutics like Deprexis and Freespira that have already received FDA clearance [2].
Addressing the Digital Mental Health Gap
FSU Psychology Professor Jesse Cougle, who will lead the trials, emphasizes a critical issue: “Treatment underutilization is a huge problem… These treatments have the potential to reach a lot of people who would benefit” [1]. This initiative addresses a growing need for accessible mental health solutions, particularly as research shows digital CBT resources can be as effective as traditional therapy while offering benefits such as increased accessibility, scheduling flexibility, and potential cost-effectiveness [4]. The project aims to improve access to mental health services in North Florida and beyond, potentially transforming how anxiety and PTSD treatments are delivered [1].