Online safety

The BBC reports that the government is considering giving powers to fine video-sharing apps and websites to Ofcom the UK's media regulator. The proposal would see Ofcom able to impose multi-million pound fines if it judges the platforms have failed to prevent children and young people seeing pornography, violence and other harmful material. According to the report Ofcom would take charge of the matter from 19 September 2020.

Link accessed 19-08-19

"Counseling With Guided Use of a Mobile Well-Being App for Students Experiencing Anxiety or Depression: Clinical Outcomes of a Feasibility Trial Embedded in a Student Counseling Service"

Background: Anxiety and depression continue to be prominent experiences of students approaching their university counseling service. These services face unique challenges to ensure that they continue to offer quality support with fewer resources to a growing student population. The convenience and availability of mobile phone apps offer innovative solutions to address therapeutic challenges and expand the reach of traditional support.

"This blended approach in our study was shown to be acceptable and feasible and showed potential to maintain clinical improvement on anxiety following the completion of brief counseling"

Link 15-08-19

"Young, British and Depressed: we need way more TV like this"

Pressurised GPs often prescribe antidepressants to young people in the interim. Many may find the medication helpful. However, as one GP interviewed said, it is “far from ideal” – and this echoes the majority view.

Of 1,000 UK GPs surveyed in the show, 86% agreed that the prescribing of antidepressants has increased due to problems accessing specialist services. Only 1% feel this is the best treatment for depression. In fact, only one type of antidepressant has been shown to be effective and recommended as a treatment for depression in children and adolescents. Dr James Davies, a psychotherapist and mental health researcher, explained how withdrawing from antidepressants can often take longer than the seven days stated in clinical guidelines. A young man spoke of his months-long experience of “brain zaps”. The guidelines are currently being updated

Link to Guardian article 06-08-19