People with Major Depression Now Have a New Recovery Option with Rejoyn App
Rejoyn, the first-ever app cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help treat depression, has officially launched to the public. The app offers a six-week program that challenges patients to recognize and remember four specific emotions, such as happiness and disgust, by matching them with photos of faces.
How Rejoyn Works
The app’s parent company, Otsuka Precision Health, likens Rejoyn to physical therapy for the brain. The activity, formally known as the emotional faces memory task (EMFT), is thought to help patients strengthen neural connections between the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which manages executive functioning, and the amygdala, which processes emotions. As users improve their face-matching ability, they move onto more difficult face-matching scenarios.
Benefits and Risks
Rejoyn appears to work by strengthening neural connections in the brain. The app is considered low risk by the FDA, and the company didn’t detect any adverse events during its clinical trial. However, patients should consult their healthcare provider if their symptoms don’t improve, or if they experience suicidal feelings or behavior.
Cost and Availability
Rejoyn will cost $50 for individual patients paying cash, and $200 for insurers. Otsuka Precision Health expects insurance carriers to eventually add coverage for the app. Patients can receive a prescription from their healthcare provider and access the app’s treatment program.
Conclusion
Rejoyn offers a new recovery option for people with major depression, providing a low-risk and non-invasive treatment. While the app requires consistent and sustained attention, it may be a viable option for those looking for an alternative to traditional therapy or medication.
FAQs
Q: Who is eligible for Rejoyn?
A: Only patients with diagnosed major depression who are currently on antidepressant medication are eligible for a prescription for the app. Patients must also be at least 22 years old.
Q: How does Rejoyn work?
A: Rejoyn offers a six-week program that challenges patients to recognize and remember four specific emotions by matching them with photos of faces.
Q: Is Rejoyn a form of digital talk therapy?
A: No, Rejoyn is not a form of digital talk therapy. Instead, it offers a unique activity designed to strengthen neural connections in the brain.
Q: Can I use Rejoyn if I’m not taking antidepressant medication?
A: No, Rejoyn is only available to patients who are currently taking antidepressant medication and have a diagnosed major depression.
Q: Will insurance cover Rejoyn?
A: Initially, Rejoyn will not be covered by insurance. However, Otsuka Precision Health expects insurance carriers to eventually add coverage for the app.
