Abstract

Author:
Sani Esther Ojochogwu, Lotachukwu S. Onwuegbusi, Onum Friday Okoh, Ijagwu Joy

Doi: 10.26480/mmhj.02.2025.78.86

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Depression remains a leading cause of disability worldwide, placing a significant economic and social burden on individuals and healthcare systems. The rapid advancement of digital technology has introduced innovative solutions to address mental health challenges, particularly through digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) such as mobile applications, teletherapy platforms, artificial intelligence chatbots, and virtual reality–based therapies. These technology-driven approaches offer scalable, accessible, and personalized alternatives to traditional face-to-face therapy, potentially reducing treatment gaps and financial strain. This study examines the cost-effectiveness of digital interventions for depression, emphasizing their economic viability and therapeutic impact compared to conventional models of care. Evidence suggests that DMHIs not only improve clinical outcomes but also optimize healthcare resource allocation by reducing direct and indirect costs associated with mental illness. Furthermore, the integration of digital tools enhances early detection, continuous monitoring, and adherence to treatment, fostering long-term recovery and resilience. By aligning affordability with accessibility, digital mental health technologies present a transformative pathway for sustainable mental healthcare delivery. The findings underscore the importance of investing in technology-enabled mental health solutions as a strategic response to the global depression crisis, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where professional resources are limited and mental health stigma remains prevalent.