Providers can use HIPAA compliant text messaging to send cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to children and adolescents, giving them real-time support with personalized interventions.
Current statistics on youth depression
According to Mental Health America, in the U.S., “20.17% of youth (ages 12-17) [suffered] from at least one major depressive episode in the past year.”
When depression is left untreated, it can impact the youth’s emotional, social, and academic development.
How is youth depression treated?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the "first choice of treatment for depressive symptoms and disorders in adolescents," explains a systematic review on the effectiveness of CBT for children and adolescents with depression.
"CBT as indicated prevention resulted in 63% less risk of being depressed at follow-up," showing its long-term benefits. Specifically, CBT addresses negative thought patterns, reducing the feelings of hopelessness in individuals with depression.
Therapists can guide young patients in identifying cognitive distortions, challenging negative thoughts, and promoting a more balanced perspective. Additionally, behavioral activation strategies and problem-solving skills are introduced to help children and adolescents manage their symptoms.
How can text messages help?
Providers, including therapists, can incorporate text messages to help youth stay "more engaged in the intervention," as evidenced by a clinical trial on automated text messaging as an adjunct to CBT for depression.
However, these text messages must adhere to HIPAA regulations. More specifically, providers must use a HIPAA compliant texting platform, like Paubox, when sending patient information.
How text messaging can improve CBT among youth
Therapy task reminders
Providers can use HIPAA compliant text messaging to remind children and adolescents to complete CBT exercises, according to their treatment plans. These reminders can also encourage them to reflect on their feelings and practice breathing exercises.
Mood tracking
Part of CBT is self-monitoring, where patients track their emotions and behaviors over time. HIPAA compliant texting makes this process easier, sending mood-tracking prompts directly to a patient’s phone. Therapists can send automated texts asking the patient to rate their mood on a scale of 1 to 10.
Ultimately, allowing patients to self-monitor their emotional patterns to discuss progress in their next therapy session.
Emotional support
Providers can use HIPAA compliant texts to send motivational messages, encouraging young patients when they need them most. Moreover, patients can refer to these messages when they feel down, providing ongoing support.
Increase engagement with personalization
HIPAA compliant platforms, like Paubox, allow providers to send personalized text messages tailored to the patient’s needs. For example, if a teen is struggling with anxiety, their therapist can send coping strategies directly to their phone. These personalized texts can help improve patient engagement, leading to more effective treatment outcomes.
Parental involvement and collaboration
According to the first study, "the involvement of caregiver(s) in intervention" has been associated with improved CBT outcomes. So, therapists can securely text the patient and their parents.
Parents can also get updates on how their child responds to therapy and tips on reinforcing CBT techniques at home, leading to more positive, long-term outcomes.
Related: Automated vs. personalized HIPAA compliant text messages
FAQs
How does HIPAA apply to text message interventions in adolescents?
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) does not specifically address adolescent text-based interventions. However, when healthcare providers must adhere to HIPAA regulations, safeguarding the privacy and security of adolescents' protected health information (PHI).
What makes a text message HIPAA compliant?
Healthcare providers must obtain patient consent and use secure messaging platforms, like Paubox, which encrypts messages during transit and rest, preventing unauthorized access.
Do providers need parental consent to text adolescent patients?
In some states, healthcare providers need parental consent, particularly for minors under a certain age, to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards regarding minors' healthcare privacy.
However, some jurisdictions allow adolescents to consent to text messages, particularly for sensitive issues like reproductive health or mental health.
