Electronic Psychological Support Provided to Youth by Latvian Children's Hospital
Digital Therapy Comes to Latvia: A New Approach to Mental Health Care for Young People
Latvia is embarking on a pilot project to explore the effectiveness of digital therapy for young people struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and other mental health issues. This innovative approach to mental health care, which has proven successful in other countries, is now available in Latvia through the Children's Hospital.
The therapy, delivered via a dedicated mobile app, is designed for motivated young people who can independently complete therapy tasks. It lasts between two to five months and is delivered remotely, allowing the young person to access therapy anytime, anywhere.
At the heart of the digital therapy is a psychologist who provides real-time feedback, ensuring that the young person receives the support they need throughout the therapy process. Before starting digital therapy, the young person needs to meet with a doctor once for an assessment to determine if digital therapy is the best course of action.
The therapy is aimed at young people aged between 14 and 25 and is based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a well-established and effective treatment for a range of mental health issues. To apply for digital therapy, the young person needs to specify their name, age, and the difficulties for which they are seeking therapy. After receiving an application, the coordinator will contact the young person to arrange a first appointment with the psychologist.
Finland has over 10 years of experience with this type of therapy and has served thousands of patients through the organization Mieli Mental Health Finland and their online program Oivamieli. In 2025, they expect to serve approximately 8,000 patients with this service. This project aims to design and improve the offering of digital therapy to the public in Latvia, following in the footsteps of Finland's successful implementation.
The Children's Hospital's digital therapy offering is part of a larger initiative to improve mental health care for young people in Latvia. The hospital's doctor has stated that there is evidence that digital therapy works, and they are excited to bring this innovative approach to mental health care to the Latvian public.
In conclusion, digital therapy is a promising new approach to mental health care for young people in Latvia. With the support of a dedicated team of psychologists and the convenience of remote therapy, young people can access the help they need to overcome their mental health challenges and live happy, healthy lives.
