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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for Rejoyn, the first digital tool aimed at aiding in the treatment of major depression.

NPR's Leila Fadel spoke with Dr. John Torous, director of digital psychiatry at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, to delve into the implications of this pioneering advancement.

Torous expressed optimism regarding the FDA's decision, highlighting the pressing need for diverse treatment options in addressing the pervasive issue of depression. With over 21 million American adults grappling with depression, the approval of Rejoyn offers a promising alternative to traditional pharmacological interventions.

Rejoyn, available exclusively via prescription, offers a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy elements, personalized reminders, messaging features and the innovative emotional faces memory task. 

Torous noted that Rejoyn is intended to complement existing treatment modalities rather than serve as a standalone solution.

"It basically asks you to do different things in the app for six weeks, assuming you're on a medication already in treatment with that provider," Torous explained to NPR. "It's something that you use in addition to treatment you have now."

However, the efficacy of Rejoyn has raised questions, with Torous pointing out that studies comparing the app to a placebo revealed marginal differences in outcomes.

While acknowledging the potential benefits of digital interventions, Torous emphasized the need for further research to ascertain the precise impact of Rejoyn and similar apps on depression management.

Despite concerns, Torous reassured that Rejoyn poses minimal risks, particularly when utilized in conjunction with existing treatment regimens.

He addressed potential apprehensions regarding increased screen time, suggesting that for most people, the app usage is unlikely to exacerbate depression symptoms.

Torous urged continued scrutiny and research to maximize the efficacy of digital interventions while emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to depression treatment that integrates both technological advancements and traditional therapeutic modalities.