What question did this study set out to answer?

To evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of digital and alternative therapies for managing depression.

February 2, 2026Open Access

Digital and Alternative Therapies for Depression: An Integrative Review of Effectiveness, Acceptability, and Implementation Challenges

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Integrative review maps effectiveness of digital and alternative therapies for depression, highlighting implementation challenges.

To evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of digital and alternative therapies for managing depression.
Conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
Searched major databases for randomized trials, pilot studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses from 2020 to 2025.
Assessed quality with RoB 2, ROBINS-I, and AMSTAR-2 guidelines.
Extracted data on design, population, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and results.
Internet-based CBT demonstrated moderate effectiveness with varied adherence rates.
Mobile apps effectively reduced depressive symptoms, though results varied significantly across studies.
Digital therapies were beneficial in low- and middle-income countries but faced access and engagement challenges.
Virtual reality interventions were found to be feasible and acceptable, showing promise.
Mindfulness-based programs notably alleviated depression and anxiety, especially in patients with comorbidities.

Antero Claiton Varela (2026) studied this question.

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