REWIRE Program for Depression and Anxiety

(REWIRE Trial)

This trial tests a program designed to reduce anxiety and depression in young people by altering their social media use. Participants will either follow the new REWIRE Program, which halves social media use and promotes engaging offline activities, or receive education about social media and health without altering their usage. The trial aims to determine if these changes improve mental health and will also examine factors like loneliness and impulsivity. Young people aged 12 to 17 who use social media for more than three hours daily and experience anxiety or depression are well-suited for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for young people to contribute to understanding how social media habits affect mental health.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that the REWIRE Program for Depression and Anxiety is expected to be safe and well-tolerated. Similar programs that aim to change social behaviors, such as immersive social training, have demonstrated improvements in depression without significant side effects. For instance, one study found that these programs quickly improved depression levels without causing harm. The REWIRE Program also emphasizes reducing social media use and promoting offline activities, which are generally safe methods. Although specific details on side effects from the REWIRE Program are not provided, the program's nature suggests it is likely safe for participants.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the REWIRE Program because it focuses on modifying patterns of social media use and daily behavior to improve mental health, offering a fresh approach compared to traditional therapies like medication and talk therapy. Unlike standard treatments that often rely on pharmaceuticals, REWIRE aims to harness the power of behavior change, which could lead to more sustainable and personalized mental health improvements. By targeting the way individuals interact with social media, the program addresses a modern factor influencing mental health that is not typically covered by existing treatments.

Research shows that altering time spent on social media can alleviate anxiety and depression. Studies have found that reducing screen time and engaging in positive real-life activities can enhance mood and improve mental health. For instance, a study with adults experiencing depression found significant mood improvement when they participated in planned activities that altered brain patterns. Additionally, therapies focusing on changing thought and behavior patterns have successfully reduced depression levels. In this trial, participants in the Phase 2: Intervention Group will receive the active REWIRE program, designed to reduce social media use and encourage real-world interactions. This approach may help treat anxiety and depression in young people.¹²⁶⁷⁸