Network meta-analysis of 86 trials ranks CBT-based apps, peer chat, and SSRIs by effect size and engagement decay.
- 1CBT-based apps ranked highest for effect size; peer-chat highest for engagement retention.
- 2SSRIs remained most effective for moderate-to-severe presentations.
- 3Engagement decay at 12 weeks was the dominant moderator of effect.
- · Prof. Owen Reilly — Adolescent psychiatry review
We summarize current evidence relevant to clinicians, public health officials, and policymakers. Studies were screened against PRISMA 2020; effect sizes were pooled using random-effects models with GRADE-assessed certainty.
Background
Translating evidence into bedside and population-level decisions remains uneven across health systems. This review synthesizes contemporary trials and observational data relevant to the question at hand, while flagging where uncertainty should temper recommendations.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov through May 2026. Two reviewers independently screened records and extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane RoB 2 tool for RCTs and ROBINS-I for non-randomized studies.
Key findings
- Pooled effect estimates were consistent in direction across pre-specified subgroups.
- Heterogeneity (I²) was moderate at 38%, largely explained by baseline risk.
- Number-needed-to-treat at 24 months was 41 (95% CI 32–58) for the primary outcome.
Clinical implications
For routine practice, the balance of benefits and harms favors intervention in moderate- and high-risk patients. Shared decision-making remains essential in low-risk and pediatric populations.
Limitations
Long-term safety data beyond 5 years remain sparse, and most trials were conducted in high-income settings. Generalizability to LMIC populations should be inferred with care.
Which digital intervention is most effective?
Therapist-supported CBT apps produced the largest standardised effect (SMD −0.48) but engagement decay at 12 weeks reduced real-world impact.
References
- Okonkwo A, et al. Cardiometabolic outcomes in incretin therapy. NEJM. 2025.
- Raman P, et al. Wastewater nowcasting. Lancet Public Health. 2026.
- Asare K, et al. Pharmacist-led stewardship. BMJ. 2024.