New Study Suggests Texting Therapy May Be Just as Effective as Video Sessions
A recent study by researchers at the University of Washington has found that individuals with mild depression may benefit from texting or emailing their therapists just as much as they would from participating in video-based therapy sessions. The study, published recently in JAMA Network Open, involved 850 participants who were randomly assigned to either receive unlimited communication with a therapist via text or email for 12 weeks or participate in video therapy through the online platform Talkspace.
The results showed that patients in both groups experienced similar reductions in depression symptoms and improvements in social interactions and functions. According to Dr. Patricia A. Areán, one of the study's co-authors, "we found that patients improved at similar rates, regardless of whether they were communicating with their therapist through messaging or live video calls." This finding suggests that text-based therapy can be a viable and evidence-based treatment option for millions of Americans struggling with depression.
In terms of outcomes, Areán noted that texting with a therapist was "as good as weekly therapy," emphasizing the potential benefits of expanded access to therapy via email and text. However, therapists and patients in video sessions developed stronger relationships, known as "greater therapeutic alliance."
While the study's findings are promising, some experts caution against generalizing its results to populations with more complex needs, such as those at high risk for suicidal thoughts or psychosis. Additionally, doctors suggest that texting therapy may be a suitable option for people with mild depression or as an initial step towards further treatment.
Overall, the study highlights the potential benefits of text-based therapy and underscores the need for increased access to mental health services via email and text. By expanding these options, more individuals may be able to find relief from depression and improve their overall well-being.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Washington has found that individuals with mild depression may benefit from texting or emailing their therapists just as much as they would from participating in video-based therapy sessions. The study, published recently in JAMA Network Open, involved 850 participants who were randomly assigned to either receive unlimited communication with a therapist via text or email for 12 weeks or participate in video therapy through the online platform Talkspace.
The results showed that patients in both groups experienced similar reductions in depression symptoms and improvements in social interactions and functions. According to Dr. Patricia A. Areán, one of the study's co-authors, "we found that patients improved at similar rates, regardless of whether they were communicating with their therapist through messaging or live video calls." This finding suggests that text-based therapy can be a viable and evidence-based treatment option for millions of Americans struggling with depression.
In terms of outcomes, Areán noted that texting with a therapist was "as good as weekly therapy," emphasizing the potential benefits of expanded access to therapy via email and text. However, therapists and patients in video sessions developed stronger relationships, known as "greater therapeutic alliance."
While the study's findings are promising, some experts caution against generalizing its results to populations with more complex needs, such as those at high risk for suicidal thoughts or psychosis. Additionally, doctors suggest that texting therapy may be a suitable option for people with mild depression or as an initial step towards further treatment.
Overall, the study highlights the potential benefits of text-based therapy and underscores the need for increased access to mental health services via email and text. By expanding these options, more individuals may be able to find relief from depression and improve their overall well-being.
u know i think its so cool that texting therapy is getting recognized as a legit treatment option!! 
i mean think about it, not everyone has access to video therapy sessions cuz they might not have the $$$ or dont feel comfy on camera 
. but with texting or emailing therapists, ppl can get help from anywhere & at any time 
its like, mental health 4 all! 
just saw this study where texting therapy is like video sessions for mild depression 
850 people in a trial found similar results but some docs are saying dont generalize it to super complex cases 
therapist vids had better relationships tho... guess expanded email/text access is the way forward 
! The idea that texting therapy can be just as effective as video sessions is literally a game-changer for people who struggle with anxiety or depression. I mean, think about it - anyone can access mental health support from anywhere in the world, at any time 
.
. I've seen so many people struggle with anxiety and depression, and it's often just about finding that one thing that helps them feel more grounded and centered 
. This could be a total game-changer for those who need that extra support.
. But overall, I'm just so excited about the possibilities of text-based therapy 
!
Texting therapy is actually a thing now! 
Just kidding, sort of. But seriously, it's crazy how far therapy has come. And I gotta say, it's awesome that we're finally seeing some research backing up texting as a viable treatment option. The fact that patients in both groups experienced similar outcomes is super promising 
!