What Is an FDA-Authorized Depression App?
Digital health technologies are booming, and for good reason. Millions of people struggle to access timely and effective mental health care due to shortages of specialists, long waitlists, and complex referral processes. Finding a provider who takes your insurance and has an open slot can be a frustrating experience, leaving many feeling hopeless. Additionally, when it comes to treating depression, only about 30% of individuals respond well to their first-line treatment. The longer it takes to see improvement, the harder it becomes to reach full remission. Untreated or undertreated depression can also increase the risk of relapse or recurrence of symptoms, creating a cycle of ongoing struggle of symptoms causing impairment in work, relationships, school and even every day tasks like chores or cooking.
For moderate to severe depression, the standard treatment often includes a combination of medication and therapy. However, as noted above, barriers like long wait times, the cost of therapy, and the time commitment required make it difficult for many to get the help they need. But what if there was a way to address these challenges right from your smartphone?
This is where the role of Rejoyn, a new prescription digital therapeutic (PDTx) designed to treat symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. Imagine being able to see a mental health provider, receive an evaluation, and leave with both a medication and a software prescription for an app that you can access the very same day. The FDA cleared Rejoyn in March 2024 and Rejoyn is now available for adults aged 22 and over who are diagnosed with MDD and currently on antidepressant treatment. Let’s dive into the specifics of this innovative tool, the science behind it, and how to get it.
What is inside the app?
Rejoyn offers a 6-week structured program that includes brain training exercises and short cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) modules. Users are recommended to engage with the app three times per week for 20-30 minutes to complete the brain training exercises. These exercises are designed to improve emotional processing, a common challenge in depression.
In addition to brain training, Rejoyn provides short, skills-based therapy lessons grounded in CBT principles. Each session lasts around five minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. These lessons are intended to be completed three times per week, complementing the brain training exercises. After the initial 6-week program, users can continue to access the app for an additional month at no extra cost.
The program is structured for consistency without overwhelming time commitment. It’s recommended to alternate between exercises and lessons every other day, with a rest day on the seventh day. For example, you might complete a brain training exercise on Monday, a CBT lesson on Tuesday, and continue this pattern throughout the week.
Does Rejoyn Work?
While wellness apps for mental health are common, Rejoyn stands out as a prescription-grade product that has undergone rigorous testing, as required by the FDA. In clinical trials, Rejoyn was compared against a digital “sham” app, allowing researchers to accurately assess its effectiveness.
The results are promising:
– At the end of the 6-week program, 51.3% of participants reported a full or partial response to treatment.
– 18.2% of users achieved full remission of their depressive symptoms.
– Additionally, 9 out of 10 patients completed the full course of the program, demonstrating high usage and satisfaction.
– The trial data also indicated a trend toward continued improvement in mood after completing the program, suggesting lasting benefits.
Rejoyn’s effectiveness extends beyond depressive symptoms. Many users in the clinical trials experienced relief from moderate to high levels of anxiety as well, making it a versatile option for individuals who face both depression and anxiety symptoms.
Any Side Effects?
Unlike medications, Rejoyn is a software-based therapeutic, which means it doesn’t come with the typical side effects associated with antidepressants, such as nausea, weight gain, or fatigue. Users of Rejoyn reported no adverse effects related to the app’s use, making it a safe option for those looking to supplement their current treatment plan. In some cases there have been reports that the app can be “hard” or “frustrating” says Desiree Matthews, PMHNP-NP, clinical director of Different MHP, PC, “but I compare it to exercise, it may be difficult, but you don’t have to win or be perfect, its about showing up, putting some time into it and we see improvements over time.”
How to Get Access To Rejoyn
Rejoyn is a prescription digital therapeutic (PDTx), so it needs to be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. If you’re already receiving care through Different Mental Health Program (Different MHP), our providers can evaluate whether Rejoyn might be a good fit for you.
Here’s how the process works:
- Evaluation: Your provider will assess your symptoms and treatment history to determine if Rejoyn is a suitable option.
- Prescription:If Rejoyn is prescribed, your provider will send the prescription to a specialty pharmacy that handles digital therapeutics. The pharmacy will check your insurance coverage and provide any available copay assistance.
- Access: Once the prescription is processed, you’ll receive a unique code to activate the app via text message. You can download Rejoyn from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, enter your code, and start the program immediately.
Available on Your Smart Phone or Device
Schedule Online
Click "Schedule Online" to check your coverage, start chatting, and access our mental health services. Upload your insurance card to see your benefits. We offer affordable care plans and easy virtual appointments. Depending on your insurance, therapy might be free for you. Message us now to learn about your coverage. We accept most major insurers like BCBS, Aetna, Medcost, United Healthcare, Cigna, and Ambetter. Please note, we do not accept Medicaid currently.
Schedule OnlineOngoing Support
In addition to the digital therapy and exercises, Rejoyn offers free access to support from trained nurses. These professionals can assist with any technical issues, answer questions about the program, and provide encouragement throughout the process. This added layer of support helps users stay engaged and increases the likelihood of a positive outcome. It’s also important to note that if you feel that you are having new or worsening symptoms of depression that you tell a health care professional and that your health care professional does not have access to the app to monitor, so it’s important to continue seeing your health care provider as recommended.
Why Choose a Prescription Digital Therapeutic?
You might wonder why a prescription app like Rejoyn is different from the countless wellness apps available. The answer lies in the evidence-based approach and regulatory standards that Rejoyn meets. While many mental health apps on the market offer general wellness tips or meditation exercises, they lack the rigorous testing needed to prove clinical effectiveness. Rejoyn, on the other hand, was developed through extensive research and clinical trials, ensuring it meets the same high standards as other FDA-authorized treatments for depression.
Is Rejoyn Affordable?
The cost of prescription digital therapeutics can vary. Insurance coverage often includes PDTx products like Rejoyn, and the specialty pharmacy handling your prescription can assist with verifying coverage. There is also the potential to use a health care savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA). As of the published date of this article, regardless of insurance there is a limited time offer of $50 for the course of treatment with Rejoyn.
Final Thoughts
Rejoyn represents a new frontier in the treatment of major depressive disorder. By combining the convenience of a smartphone app with the proven benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and brain training exercises, Rejoyn offers an innovative solution to the ongoing challenges of accessing effective mental health care. For those who struggle with traditional therapy barriers or want to enhance their current treatment plan, or like to be more in control of their treatment, Rejoyn provides a promising new option without the added burden of side effects.
If you’re interested in learning more about Rejoyn and whether it might be right for you, reach out to your healthcare provider or connect with our team at Different MHP. We’re here to support you on your journey to better mental health, one step—or one session—at a time. (need to insert a schedule here CTA?)
→ With the launch of Rejoyn, adults struggling with depressive symptoms now have a powerful tool that fits right into their pocket. → Because yes, when it comes to treating depression, **there’s an app for that**.
**Disclaimer:**
The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not represent or reflect the official stance of the creators or developers of Rejoyn. While the information provided is based on available research and clinical data, it is intended for general informational purposes only. The author’s opinions on the product should not be construed as endorsements or guarantees of its effectiveness. Users are encouraged to consult directly with their healthcare providers and refer to the official product literature for accurate and comprehensive information about Rejoyn.
Frequently Asked Questions: FDA-Authorized Depression App
An FDA-authorized app has been reviewed and cleared for use as a medical device or clinical tool based on evidence of safety and utility. It follows regulatory standards for digital health tools.
No. The app is a screening tool that provides meaningful symptom information. Only a licensed clinician can make a formal diagnosis through a full evaluation.
When built on validated scales like the PHQ-9, digital tools are accurate at identifying symptoms and guiding next steps, but they’re not substitutes for clinical assessment.
You don’t need a doctor to complete the screening, but clinical context and follow-up with a provider are recommended if your results suggest significant symptoms.
These digital screenings typically take 5–10 minutes to complete.
No. The app is a screening and insight tool. Therapy and medication decisions require professional evaluation.
Authorized tools follow data protection standards (HIPAA if applicable). Your data should be encrypted and confidential, not shared without consent.
Use your results as a guide to decide whether to seek a full evaluation with a provider, including virtual psychiatry or therapy.
Why Isn’t Your Depression Getting Better?
