Children across Gloucestershire, and their parents, carers and teachers, are feeling the benefits of an innovative digital approach to tackling anxiety.
The Lumi Nova app, which combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques with an easy to follow challenge game, has been accessed by more than 1,700 children since it was launched for families in the county.
Early data, based on feedback from 255 parents who have downloaded the App, suggests it is having a positive impact on the mental health of children using the game. More than 90% of users reported reliable improvements or no decline after a period spent playing Lumi Nova.
Hayley Payne, Associate Director for Children, Young People and Maternity at NHS Gloucestershire, said the results of the initial Lumi Nova pilot have shown real promise.
She said: “We are really pleased with how many families have downloaded the app and how many are now seeing the benefits. Childhood worries and anxiety can be really frightening for both the child and their parents and we know the techniques in Lumi Nova can help support those facing emotional difficulties.
“Working with partners on the Lumi Nova launch and then receiving such positive feedback from families underscores just how digital innovation can have a massive impact on health and wellbeing. Lumi Nova allows children to face their worries in safe environment, and we know some of the grown-ups love helping to catch those slimes too.
“Supporting the mental health of our younger Gloucestershire residents is really important to us and we hope this app makes it easier for families to access high quality resources which can help their little ones develop skills to last a lifetime.”
Recommended by NICE and funded by the NHS, Lumi Nova is a fun, quest-style game which helps provide children aged 7 to 12 with skills to face their worries. NHS Gloucestershire is funding free access for families in the county who may find the app useful.
The app is suitable for Apple and Android devices and is free to use for anyone living in Gloucestershire.
To access Lumi-Nova visit luminova.app/glos. For parents wishing to learn more there is more information on the app here: Parent Lumi Nova Discovery Session