Depression in children: offer digital CBT as first line treatment, says NICE

Children and young people with mild depression should be offered digital cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as first line treatment, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has recommended in draft guidance.1

The recommendation should help young people get faster access to psychological help. There is a huge demand for child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS), and latest figures from NHS Digital show that one in eight 5-19 year olds had at least one mental disorder in 2017.23

Digital CBT—also known as computer CBT—can be delivered on mobile phones, tablets, and computers. It is already recommended for adults with mild to moderate depression.

The guidelines recommend that children and young people …