It’s not a replacement for actual therapy.
A newly developed app, known as Maya, is not meant to replace traditional psychotherapy but could offer valuable support for young adults dealing with anxiety, according to researchers. Dr. Avital Falk, a co-author of the study and app designer, emphasized that Maya could serve as a useful and accessible resource for anxiety management. Dr. Falk, an associate professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, noted her excitement at seeing their concept become a reality.
The app, which was created in collaboration with Weill Cornell Information Technologies & Services, draws on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. This established therapeutic approach provides users with coping skills and cognitive techniques to handle everyday mental health challenges more effectively. Maya is specifically designed for young adults aged 18 to 25, a period often marked by significant stress as individuals transition from school to work and independent living.
Maya offers a range of resources, including videos, exercises, and educational materials, to support users when they do not have immediate access to a mental health professional. In a trial with 59 participants, most continued using the app consistently for almost the entire 12-week study period, demonstrating sustained engagement.
Dr. Faith Gunning, the senior author of the study and vice chair for research in psychiatry at Weill Cornell, pointed out the potential benefits of digital tools for mental health. She noted that while technology’s impact on mental health is often discussed negatively, apps like Maya could offer a beneficial alternative for those who might otherwise not seek out professional help. Gunning suggested that if the app effectively reduces anxiety symptoms, it could encourage users to pursue further professional care when necessary, helping to bridge the gap until they can access traditional therapy.
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