Mobile Device-Based Applications for Childhood Anxiety Disorders

Objective: Given that childhood anxiety disorders are common and frequently undertreated, novel treatment platforms are needed. The current article explores the potential for mobile device-based (m-health) applications, to expand access to evidence-based treatment. Methods: This article reviews the relevant literature regarding barriers to disseminating evidence-based treatment, the potential benefits of the m-health platform, standards for evaluating m-health interventions, and currently available applications. Results: Although a large number of m-health applications for anxiety are available, the vast majority of them are inconsistent with therapy protocols supported by the child anxiety treatment literature. The relatively few m-health applications based on evidence-based practice have not yet been examined empirically. Conclusions: Realizing the potential of m-health for child anxiety will require addressing the uncertainty around the necessary and sufficient components of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), as well as the common challenges associated with delivering interventions via information and communication technology. Mayo Clinic Anxiety Coach is an m-health application designed by the author and colleagues to be consistent with exposure-based CBT and principles for effective intervention delivery via information and communication technology. Recommendations for identifying, using, and developing m-health applications for childhood anxiety disorders are presented.