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European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA)
  • News article
  • 8 October 2021
  • 1 min read

iFightDepression: an EU-funded tool to empower people with depression

In Europe, not all people suffering from depression receive the treatment they need. This is mainly due to deficits in the diagnostic and treatment phases. A new tool developed by EU-funded projects could help bridge the gap.

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The iFightDepression tool is based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy, which has proven effective in helping people with depression. This online, self-management programme was first developed as part of the project PREDI-NU (Preventing Depression and Improving Awareness through Networking in the EU), funded under the Third EU Health programme.

The implementation of the tool is steered by the newly launched project EAAD-Best. The project is managed by a consortium of 10 partners, including the European Alliance Against Depression (EAAD) and will run until 2024. The EAAD-Best project is currently promoting the tool in new regions and countries in Europe including Bulgaria, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Poland and Spain.

How does the iFightDepression tool tackle the current gap in mental health care access?

First and foremost, the tool is free of charge and can be used at one’s convenience. Moreover, it is offered in 12 languages. Last but no least, health professionals (General Practitioners, psychiatrists, psychotherapists) provide guidance to users with any question they may have.

To date, more than 25,000 people across 12 countries have used the iFightDepression tool. In recognition of its effectiveness in addressing suicidal behavior and depression, the tool was voted as ‘mental health best practice’ by representatives of EU Member States at the European Commission's Joint Research Centre in Ispra, last May 2019.

About EAAD

Founded in 2008, the European Alliance Against Depression (EAAD) works to improve care and treatment for patients with depression and suicidal behaviour. It collaborates with more than 120 regional network partners and members in Europe, Australia, Canada, Chile and New Zealand. It strengthens community engagement through the implementation of the 4-level intervention concept and enables people to self-manage their depression via the evidenced based iFightDepression tool.

 

Image source in article: Danielle MacInnes on Unsplash

Details

Publication date
8 October 2021
Programme Sector
  • Health