WO2013163730A1

WO2013163730A1 - Method and system for assisting a patient followed by a clinician and suffering from depression

Info

Publication number: WO2013163730A1
Application number: PCT/CA2013/000422
Authority: WO
Inventors: Réal LABELLE; Antoine BIBAUD-DE SERRES
Original assignee: Centre D'Études Sur Le Stress Humain - Centre De Recherche Fernand-Seguin
Priority date: 2012-05-01
Filing date: 2013-04-26
Publication date: 2013-11-07
Also published as: CA2866980A1

Abstract

A method and a system are disclosed for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising the patient executing an application on a smartphone; providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient on a user interface of the application; providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application; receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application; providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition; and if the suicidal condition is detected, using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ASSISTING A PATIENT

FOLLOWED BY A CLINICIAN AND SUFFERING FROM DEPRESSION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The application claims priority on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/641 ,116 that was filed on May 1 , 2012, the specification of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The invention relates to the field of information technology. More precisely, this invention pertains to a method and system for assisting a patient followed by a clinician and suffering from depression.

BACKGROUND

Depression is a major health issue with serious consequences. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression will become the second largest cause of incapacity worldwide by 2020. In Canada, about 11% of men and 16% of women suffer from a major depression in their life. Moreover, the direct as well as the indirect cost linked to this disease amount to about 14.4 billion $ CAD, which makes it one of the most expensive disease in the country. In Quebec only, about 8% of individuals above 12 years old have experienced depression in the last 12 months. Finally, major depression is the psychopathology most associated with suicidal behaviour.

In order to provide assistance to a patient suffering from a depression, a clinician usually provides the patient with a plurality of paper documents such as a list of phone numbers to dial in case of emergency, information booklets, exercises documents, etc. Unfortunately, there are many drawbacks associated with providing paper documents.

Firstly, providing a lot of paper documents may complicate access by the patient to relevant information, especially during a crisis.

Secondly, the paper documents may be lost or damaged. Thirdly, paper documents are by nature non-interactive, which may limit their efficiency, especially when the patient wishes to interact with external resources.

Fourthly, the use of paper documents usually limits interactions between a patient and a clinician, since often phone numbers provided on the paper are either directed to voicemails or are phone numbers of assistants.

Fifthly, calling a plurality of contacts while in crisis can be tedious and may result in the inability to reach help.

Finally, emergency protocols which may be listed in a paper document may be less efficient due to the nature of the document, since information is displayed in a non-interactive way and since the amount of information which may be disclosed may be limited.

There is a need for a method and system that will overcome at least one of the above-identified drawbacks.

Features of the invention will be apparent from review of the disclosure, drawings and description of the invention below.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising the patient executing an application on a smartphone; providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient on a user interface of the application; providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application; receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application; providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition and if the suicidal condition is detected, using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

In accordance with an embodiment, the executing of an application on a smartphone comprises providing an application and configuring the application from a website. In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the application comprises downloading the application.

In accordance with an embodiment, the configuring of the application comprises customizing the application depending on particulars of the patient.

In accordance with an embodiment, the customizing of the application to the patient is performed by the clinician.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an access on a user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for understanding depression.

In accordance with an embodiment, the information displayed for understanding depression comprises at least one video for understanding depression.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an access on a user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression.

In accordance with an embodiment, the information for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression comprises at least one video for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an access on the user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for informing the patient on appropriate life habits.

In accordance with an embodiment, the displaying of the information on the user interface comprises displaying customized text to the patient.

In accordance with an embodiment, the customized text is provided by the clinician.

In accordance with an embodiment, the displaying of the information on the user interface informing the patient on appropriate life habits further comprises displaying a list of at least one reference. In accordance with an embodiment, the list of at least one reference comprises at least one of hyperlinks and phone numbers which may be accessed by the patient using the smartphone.

In accordance with an embodiment, the method further comprises the clinician updating at least one part of the information associated with a corresponding customized treatment.

In accordance with an embodiment, the updating of at least one part of the information associated with a corresponding customized treatment is performed by the clinician using an access to a server operatively connected to the smartphone.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards behavioral activation.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with at least one exercise directed toward behavioral activation comprises displaying on the user interface an invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated at given time intervals for an activity.

In accordance with an embodiment, the displaying on the user interface of the invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated is performed following an invitation.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards cognitive restructuration.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an exercise directed towards cognitive restructuration comprises inviting the patient to describe an event that led to a given emotion on the user interface of the application, inviting the patient to provide an indication of the given emotion linked to the event and a corresponding intensity on the user interface of the application, inviting the patient to provide an indication of an automatic thought and a corresponding intensity and inviting the patient to provide an indication of a new thought, and providing a request to reevaluate the intensity level of the given emotion on the user interface of the application.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards resolution of problem.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with at least one exercise directed toward resolution of problem comprises requesting the patient to define a given problem and its attitude towards the given problem on the user interface of the application, requesting the patient to provide at least one solution on the user interface of the application and requesting the patient to select at least one solution to implement it on the user interface of the application.

In accordance with an embodiment, the requesting the patient to select at least one solution to implement it on the user interface of the application comprises creating a calendar event and evaluating the at least one solution on the user interface of the application.

In accordance with an embodiment, the receiving of an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application comprises assessing a level of joy/sadness, assessing a lack of interest/pleasure and assessing a level of despair/hope on the user interface of the application.

In accordance with an embodiment, at least one precursor signal is entered and the method further comprises inviting the patient to identify, on the user interface of the application, if a given precursor sign of the entered at least one precursor sign is present.

In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition comprises displaying on the user interface of the application a visual element, the visual element for accessing a section for providing safety information to the patient.

In accordance with an embodiment, the section for providing safety information to the patient comprises a section for displaying information on an environment of the patient and its control, a section for displaying at least one precursor sign entered by the patient, a section for displaying coping strategies entered by the patient, a section for enabling the patient to contact at least one of a friend and a family member using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact the clinician using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center using the smartphone.

In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of numbers dialed are corresponding numbers of individuals from a list of a plurality of individuals provided by the patient, the list of a plurality of individuals comprising the at least one of a friend and a family member.

In accordance with an embodiment, the dialing is performed in parallel using a telephony server.

In accordance with an embodiment, a test is performed in order to find out if at least one individual answers and further wherein at least a given individual is put in a conference call with the patient if the at least one given individual answers.

In accordance with an embodiment, a maximum of two individuals are allowed to access the conference call.

In accordance with an embodiment, the method further comprises contacting a crisis center if no one answers the call.

In accordance with an embodiment, the method further comprises sending an SMS message to the clinician.

In accordance with an embodiment, the section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center comprises a section for providing directions to a given emergency center.

In accordance with an embodiment, the given emergency center is selected by the application depending on a geographic location of the patient.

According to another aspect, there is disclosed a smartphone for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the smartphone comprising a display device; a central processing unit; a communication port for connecting the smartphone to another processing device and for communicating with another phone; an input output port for enabling the user to interact with the smartphone; and a memory unit comprising instructions for providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient on a user interface displayed on the display unit; instructions for providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface displayed on the display unit; instructions for receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient; instructions for providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition; and if the suicidal condition is detected, instructions for using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

According to another aspect, there is disclosed a computer-readable storage medium comprising computer-readable instructions which when executed cause a smartphone to execute a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient; providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient; receiving from the patient an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application; providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition and if the suicidal condition is detected, using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

An advantage of the method disclosed is that the method disclosed enables the assisting of a patient by a clinician by, inter alia, providing customized information to the patient which may be readily available on the smartphone of the patient.

Another advantage of the method disclosed is that a patient may have readily access to customized information pertaining to its condition and to its treatment at a single location.

Another advantage of the method disclosed is that a clinician may have access to patient data between two appointments.

Another advantage of the method disclosed herein is a patient is able to contact a plurality of individuals in case of a crisis using the smartphone. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the invention may be readily understood, embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is a diagram which shows an embodiment of a system for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from a depression.

Figure 2 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment of a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician.

Figure 3 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment of a method for executing an application on a smartphone wherein the application is used for assisting a patient followed by a clinician and suffering from depression.

Figure 4 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment of a method for configuring the application on the smartphone.

Figure 5 is a screenshot of a user interface of the application which shows a section in which information is displayed to the patient.

Figure 6 is a screenshot of a user interface of the application which shows a plurality of prescription exercises which may be accessed by the patient.

Figure 7 is a screenshot of a user interface of the application which shows a user interface in which activities have been entered by the patient with corresponding levels of pleasure and control.

Figure 8a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is invited to enter a description of an event that led to an emotion.

Figure 8b is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient indicates what is the corresponding emotion linked to the event and a corresponding intensity for the emotion.

Figure 8c is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is asked to identify an automatic thought and a corresponding intensity.

Figure 8d is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient identifies a more appropriate thought toward the emotion and assesses its intensity.

Figure 8e is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is asked to reevaluate the intensity level of the emotion. Figure 8f is a screenshot of a user interface of the application which shows a first part of the data of an exercise.

Figure 8g is a screenshot of a user interface of the application which shows a second part of the data of an exercise.

Figure 9a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is required to define a given problem.

Figure 9b is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is required to describe his attitude towards the given problem.

Figure 9c is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is invited to enter a first solution to the given problem.

Figure 9d is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is invited to enter a second solution to the given problem. It will be appreciated that the patient can enter more solutions.

Figure 9e is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is required to select one of two solutions.

Figure 9f is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is invited to create a calendar event and evaluate the solution selected.

Figure 10a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which historical data for the mood may be accessed by the patient.

Figure 10b is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient may evaluate his/her mood.

Figure 10c is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which a patient is invited to identify if he/she believes that a precursor sign previously entered is present.

Figure 10d is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient may provide comments.

Figure is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which mood historical data are presented.

Figure 12a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient is required to personalize the application.

Figure 12b is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient as well as the clinician are required to personalize the application. Figure 13a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient and the clinician provide various information.

Figure 13b is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which there are buttons to allow modifications or to reset the therapeutic contract, a button for reinitializing all data and a button for reinitializing a prevention plan.

Figure 14a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the patient and the clinician may enter a first precursor sign, a second precursor sign and a third precursor sign.

Figure 14b is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the clinician and the patient may enter a first coping strategy, a second coping strategy and a third coping strategy.

Figures 15a and 15b are screenshots of a user interface of the application in which the clinician and the patient may enter a name and a corresponding phone number for up to five contacts. At least one name and its corresponding phone number are required for the call blast to work properly.

Figure 15c is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which the clinician may enter his name and phone number to receive a text message whenever the call blast is activated. It also shows the options of the call blast.

Figure 16a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application in which an alert may be created.

Figure 16b is a screenshot a user interface of the application in which the alert may be configured.

Figure 17a is a screenshot of a user interface of the application showing various items of a safety plan.

Figure 17b is a screenshot of the application which shows an example of a user interface entitled "safe living environment."

Figure 17c is a screenshot of the application which shows an example of a second user interface entitled "early warning signs."

Figure 17d is a screenshot of the application which shows an example of a third user interface entitled "coping strategies." Figure 17e is a screenshot of a user interface of the application showing a call blast using which the patient can reach at least one individual in a suicidal crisis.

Figure 17f is a screenshot of a user interface of the application showing a user interface for enabling the patient to reach a health-care professional, as defined in the application configuration.

Figure 17g is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface in which a patient in suicidal crisis has telephone access to an emergency resource.

Figure 17h is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface displaying a list of hospitals around a patient, together with directions for accessing them.

Figure 18a is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface in which the patient identifies potential causes of a depressive relapse.

Figure 18b is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface in which the patient identifies warning signs before a depressive relapse.

Figure 18c is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface in which the patient chooses what to do if warning signs appear.

Figure 18d is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface in which the patient chooses actions in the case of a depressive relapse.

Figure 18e is a screenshot of the application which shows an embodiment of a user interface showing an example of an email generated using the answers to various questions.

Figure 19 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment of a method for contacting an individual if suicidal conditions are detected.

Further details of the invention and its advantages will be apparent from the detailed description included below. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of the embodiments, references to the accompanying drawings are by way of illustration of an example by which the invention may be practiced. It will be understood that other embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention disclosed.

Now referring to Fig. 1 , there is shown an embodiment of a system 100 in which a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician may be implemented.

More precisely, the system 100 comprises a server 102, a clinician processing device 104, a data network 106 and a plurality of smartphones 108.

The server 102 is used for storing as well as for sharing data as further explained below. The server 102 is operatively connected to the clinician processing device 104 and to each of the plurality of smartphones 108.

It will be appreciated that the data stored in the server 102 may be of various types.

The data stored in the server 102 may further comprise information data to be delivered to the plurality of smartphones 108. The information data may be selected from a group consisting of texts, audio data, video data, animation data or any combination thereof.

The data stored in the server 102 may further comprise configuration data associated with a smartphone of the plurality of smartphones 108.

The data stored in the server 102 may further comprise data received from a smartphone of the plurality of smartphones 108. In an embodiment, the data received from a smartphone comprises an indication of a corresponding smartphone. In a preferred embodiment, the indication is the unique device identifier (UDID) of the corresponding smartphone.

In an embodiment, the server 102 comprises a computer with a central processing unit, memory and a permanent storage, such as a hard disk drive. The server 102 is in a LAMP software stack configuration (Centos Linux operating system, Apache HTTP server, MySQL, PHP, CSS, and JavaScript that provides browser access to data provided by each of the plurality of smartphones 108). In an embodiment, the server 102 is operatively connected to the data network 106 using a network interface. The network interface is physical Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) connected to the Internet. As known to the skilled addressee, the Internet is a worldwide network of interconnected computer networks that operates using a standardized set of communications protocols called TCP/IP of the Internet protocol suite.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that various alternative embodiments may be provided for the server 102.

In particular, the server 102 may use another Linux distribution, or another operating system such as Unix^(TM), MacOS^{(T )} X or Microsoft™ Windows^(TM). Other web servers such as Windows IIS, lighttpd or Oracle^{(T )}'s Sun Web server may alternatively be used. Other database softwares such as Oracle^(TM), Windows^(TM) SQL server, PostgreSQL may alternatively be used. Also, other programming languages such as Java^(TM), Perl, or Microsoft'™' ASP C# may alternatively be used. It will be appreciated that the server 102 may also comprise a cluster of computers with processing and database processes distributed over the computers.

The clinician processing device 04 is used by a clinician for following a plurality of patients. It will be appreciated that the clinician processing device 104 is used for accessing the server 102, as further explained below.

More precisely, the clinician processing device 104 is capable of receiving data from the server 102. In an embodiment, the server 102 is accessed by the clinician processing device 104 using a browser.

In an embodiment, the data received from the server 102 comprises data received by the server 102 from an application running on a smartphone of the plurality of smartphones 108.

The data received by the clinician processing device 104 from the server 102 further comprises data indicative of smartphones, e.g., UDID, and an associated configuration.

The clinician processing device 104 is capable of providing data to the server 102. In particular, the clinician processing device 104 is capable of providing data to the server 102 for the purpose of configuring each application associated with a given smartphone. The skilled addressee will appreciate that this is of great advantage since it enables the customization of the application for a given patient.

In an embodiment, the clinician processing device 104 is a desktop.

It will be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, the clinician processing device 104 may be selected from a group consisting of tablet computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops, etc.

The data network 106 is used for sharing data between the server 102, the clinician processing device 104 and each of the plurality of smartphones 108.

It will be appreciated that the data network 106 is the Internet and includes all networks that support the TCP/IP and may comprise at least one of a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellular network, etc.

In an embodiment, the data network 106 comprises all wireless communication networks that support TCP/IP (e.g. CDMA, GSM, WiFi, WiMax, etc.).

Each of the plurality of smartphones 108 is used for sharing data via an application, as explained further below. Each of the plurality of smartphones 108 is typically used by a patient receiving treatment for depression with or without suicidal behavior. This treatment is provided by a clinician with the support of a smartphone.

It will be appreciated that the smartphones of the plurality of smartphones may be of various types. In fact, each smartphone may run a given operating system. In an embodiment, each smartphone is an iPhone^(TM) running iOS and manufactured by Apple^(TM).

It will be appreciated that a smartphone may alternatively run an operating system selected from a group consisting of Blackberry OS, Android, Linux, Windows mobile, WebOS, Bada, Symbian OS, etc.

It will be appreciated that each smartphone of the plurality of smartphones 108 is provided with an application, as further explained below.

Now referring to Fig. 2, there is shown an embodiment of a method 200 for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression. According to processing step 202, an application is executed on a smartphone.

Now referring to Fig. 3, there is shown an embodiment for executing the application on a smartphone.

According to processing step 302, an application is provided. It will be appreciated that the application may be provided to a smartphone of the plurality of smartphones according to various embodiments.

In one embodiment, the application is downloaded from a website and is installed using iTunes^(TM). The skilled addressee will appreciate that various alternative embodiments may be provided for downloading the application.

According to processing step 304, the downloaded application is configured.

Now referring to Fig. 4, there is shown how the downloaded application is configured in accordance with one embodiment.

According to processing step 402, the application is customized to a given patient. The application is customized to a given patient depending on particulars of the patient.

In an embodiment, the application is customized by the clinician.

For instance and in one embodiment, the application running on the smartphone comprises information associated with a customized treatment or pathology. Such information may therefore be customized by the clinician via the server 102.

The application running on the smartphone further comprises prescription exercises associated with the patient. The prescription exercises may also be customized by the clinician via the server 102.

According to processing step 404, the application is updated according to the customization performed by the clinician. It will be appreciated that the updating may occur at various times depending on when the update is made for instance.

Now referring back to Fig. 2 and according to processing step 204, a patient is provided with an access to information. It will be appreciated that the information is provided to the patient on a user interface of the application.

Now referring to Fig. 5, there is shown an example of a screenshot 500 of the application and more precisely of a screenshot of a section of the application displaying information to the patient and other useful details for the patient.

In this embodiment, a section selection menu 502 is comprised of a first section button 510 for accessing a first section of the application.

The section selection menu 502 is further comprised of a second section button 512 for accessing a second section of the application.

The section selection menu 502 is further comprised of a third section button 514 for accessing a third section of the application.

The section selection menu 502 is further comprised of a fourth section button 516 for accessing a fourth section of the application.

The screenshot 500 is further comprised a section button 518 for accessing a fifth section of the application.

It will be appreciated that in this embodiment the second and third section of the application is used for providing information to the patient. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment the first section of the application is used for providing mood evaluation and device personalization. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment the fourth section is used for providing prescription exercises. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment the fifth selection button is used for providing suicide prevention.

As shown in Fig. 5, the third section is comprised of a first information button 504, a second information button 506 and a third information button 508.

Still in this embodiment, the first information button 504 is used for accessing information which may be displayed on the user interface of the application and which may be used for enabling a user to understand depression.

In an embodiment, the information displayed to the patient and used for enabling the patient to understand depression comprises at least one video.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that various alternative embodiments may be provided. The second information button 506 is used for accessing information which may be displayed on the user interface of the application and which may be used for enabling a patient to understand how to treat depression.

In an embodiment, the information displayed for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression comprises at least one video.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that various alternative embodiments may be provided.

The third information button 508 is used for accessing information which may be displayed on the user interface of the application and which may be used for enabling a patient to have information on appropriate life habits.

In an embodiment, this information displayed comprises at least one video.

It will be appreciated that a fourth information button, not shown, may be provided for enabling a user to have access to customized texts which may be provided by the clinician and may be used for addressing particular issues faced by the patient.

In addition, a list of at least one reference to specific resources may also be provided. The list of at least one reference to specific resources may comprise hyperlinks to websites as well as phone numbers which may be readily accessed using the smartphone and which may enable access to services providing support or/and information.

As mentioned above, it will be appreciated that the information may be updated using the server 102. In fact, the clinician may decide to update at least one part of the information via the server 102 based on various criteria.

In such case, the clinician will use the clinician processing device to access and update configuration data for the smartphone. The server 102 will in turn update the smartphone accordingly.

It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the providing of customized information to the patient via the smartphone is of great advantage for maintaining a therapeutic alliance between the patient and the clinician and for increasing adherence of the patient to a given treatment.

Now referring back to Fig. 2 and according to processing step 206, the patient is provided with an access to prescription exercises. The patient is provided with an access to prescription exercises on the user interface of the application.

It will be appreciated that the prescription exercises may be accessed by clicking to the fourth section button 516.

Those prescription exercises are directed towards behavioral activation, towards cognitive restructu ration, and towards the resolution of problems in accordance with one embodiment.

Now referring to Fig. 6, there is shown an embodiment of a user interface which shows a plurality of prescription exercises which may be accessed after clicking the fourth section button 516.

The interface 600 comprises a first section button 602 which may be used to access an exercise entitled "reactivate your life," which is directed towards behavioral activation.

In this section, patients are invited to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated at given time intervals for an activity. The patient can have access to previous days and weeks.

Now referring to Fig. 7, there is shown an embodiment of a user interface which shows an embodiment in which activities have been entered by the patient with an associated level of pleasure (from 0 to 5 in one embodiment) and a level of control (from 0 to 5 in one embodiment).

It will be appreciated that a reminder may be provided to the patient for the purpose of inviting him or her to fill in a corresponding time slot with a description of an activity performed, an associated level of pleasure and a level of control.

It will be further appreciated that the invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a level of control may be performed following an invitation.

Now referring back to Fig. 6, the interface 600 further comprises a second section button 604 which may be used for accessing an exercise entitled "think differently," which is directed towards cognitive restructu ration. The skilled addressee will appreciate that more than one exercise directed towards cognitive restructu ration may be provided.

In this exercise, the patient is invited to first describe an event that led to a given emotion as shown in Fig. 8a. It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the description of the event that led to the given emotion may be provided by the patient to the application according to various embodiments.

The patient is then invited to indicate what is the corresponding emotion linked to the event and a corresponding intensity for the emotion as shown in Fig. 8b. It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the given emotion linked to the event and the corresponding intensity of the given emotion may be provided to the application according to various embodiments.

The patient is then invited to identify an automatic thought and a corresponding intensity as shown in Fig. 8c. Again, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the identified automatic thought and the corresponding intensity may be provided by the patient to the application according to various embodiments.

The patient is then provided with a user interface which lets him provide a new thought, more appropriate than the automatic thought, that is linked to the event described earlier. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the displaying of the given emotion as well as the request to reevaluate the intensity level of the given emotion may be provided to the patient according to various embodiments.

Following that, the patient is then requested to reevaluate the intensity level of the given emotion, as shown in Fig. 8e. The reevaluation of the intensity level of the given emotion may be performed according to various embodiments.

It will be appreciated that the patient may then have readily access to the data entered in this exercise, as shown in Figs. 8f and 8g.

Now referring back to Fig. 6, it will be appreciated that the user interface displayed is provided with a third section button 606 which may be used to access an exercise entitled "resolve problems," which is directed towards the resolution of problem. The skilled addressee will appreciate that more than one exercise directed toward the resolution of problem may be provided.

As shown in respectively Figs. 9a and 9b, the patient is required to describe and define on a user interface of the application a given problem and its attitude towards that the given problem. It will be appreciated that the patient may provide a description and a definition of the given problem according to various embodiments. As shown in respectively Figs. 9c and 9d, the patient is required to provide on an interface of the application a first solution and a second solution (or more) to the given problem defined. This is one embodiment of providing at least one solution. The patient may provide the first solution and the second solution according to various embodiments.

The patient is then requested to select at least one of the solutions, as shown in Fig. 9e and to implement the at least one solution by creating a calendar event and by then evaluating the at least one solution selected as shown in Fig. 9f. Again, the skilled addressee will appreciate that the selection of the at least one solution, the creation of the calendar event and the evaluation of the at least one solution may be implemented according to various embodiments.

Now referring back to Fig. 2 and according to processing step 208, an indication of a current mood is provided. It will be appreciated that the indication of the current mood is received using the application.

More precisely and in one embodiment, the indication of a current mood is entered by accessing a first section of the application by pressing the first section button 510.

Fig. 10a shows a subsection of the first section of the application in which historical data for the mood may be accessed and also in which a patient may select to access a current mood evaluation interface as shown in Fig. 10b. The evaluation of the mood will be performed in this embodiment using three criteria.

A first criterion is used for assessing a level of sadness/joy while a second criterion is used for assessing a level of lack of interest/pleasure and a third criterion is used for assessing a level of despair/hope.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the mood may be evaluated according to various alternative embodiments.

It will be appreciated that during the mood evaluation and as shown in Fig. 10c, the patient is invited to identify on the user interface of the application if he/she believes that a given precursor sign of the at least one given precursor sign previously entered in the clinician section of the settings during initial configuration of the application is present. It will be appreciated that the patient may use a switch button on the interface to identify a corresponding precursor sign if the corresponding sign is believed to be present. It will be appreciated that if one of the three criteria or a combination of the three criteria matches a given combination, the patient may be required to access his/her safety plan. As shown in Fig. 10d, the patient may also be invited to enter comments. It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the comments may be used by the patient for the purpose of future consultations. Alternatively or in addition, the comments may be provided to the clinician via the server 102.

It will be appreciated that the patient may have access to historical data for the mood. An example of historical data is shown at Fig. 11.

Now referring back to Fig. 2 and according to processing step 210, the patient is provided with means for detecting a suicidal condition.

It will be appreciated that the patient is required to personalize the application.

The personalization of the application will comprise in one embodiment providing/modifying an access code, managing alerts, enter patient data such as name, email address and phone number.

An example of a user interface for personalizing the application is shown in Figs. 12a and 12b. As shown in those figures, the patient is required to enter an access code for accessing the application.

The patient is also required to provide personal data such as name, phone number, email and name of the clinician as shown in Figs. 12a and 12b.

It will be appreciated that at least one part of the personalizing of the application is made together with the clinician.

It will be appreciated that the providing of the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition comprises displaying a user interface on the application of a visual element, the visual element for accessing a section for providing safety information to the patient.

The section for providing safety information to the patient comprises a section for displaying information on an environment of the patient and its control, a section for displaying at least one precursor sign entered by the patient, a section for displaying coping strategies entered by the patient, a section for enabling the patient to contact at least one of a friend and a family member using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact the clinician using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center using the smartphone.

More precisely, Fig. 13a shows a user interface in which the patient and the clinician may provide a "safe environment" menu, a "precursor signs" menu, a "strategies" menu, a "professional contact" menu, a "call blast" menu and a button for enabling the clinician to modify its pass code.

Fig. 13b shows a user interface in which inter alia there are a button for reinitializing all data and a button for reinitializing a prevention plan.

As shown in Fig. 14a, the patient and the clinician may enter a first precursor sign, a second precursor sign and a third precursor sign. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the first precursor sign, the second precursor sign and the third precursor sign may be entered according to various embodiments.

As shown in Fig. 14b, the patient and the clinician may enter a first corresponding strategy, a second corresponding strategy and a third corresponding strategy.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the first corresponding strategy, the second corresponding strategy and the third corresponding strategy may be provided according to various embodiments.

As shown in Figs. 15a and 15b, the patient and the clinician may enter a name and a corresponding phone number for five individuals. It will be appreciated that the five individuals may be close friends, family members or other relatives. It will be appreciated that in an embodiment those persons have previously signed an agreement and are aware that their information is in this section. It will be appreciated that the list of individuals may be used if a suicidal condition is detected as further explained below.

Fig. 15c is a screenshot of the application which shows a user interface in which the clinician may enter his name and phone number to receive a short message service (SMS) message whenever the call blast is activated. It also shows the options of the call blast. Referring to Fig. 17f, a fifth item of the "safety plan" is a button for enabling the patient to access a subsection entitled "Professional support; contact my clinician."

It will be appreciated that the data of this subsection is initially provided by the patient and the clinician. It will be appreciated that in this subsection, a clinician may be contacted. It will be further appreciated that when the clinician is contacted, the clinician can have access to geolocalization data pertaining to the patient. The skilled addressee will appreciate that this is of great advantage since the clinician can readily know where the patient is located.

Referring Fig. 17g, a sixth item of the "safety plan" is a button for enabling the patient to access a subsection entitled "Emergency; contact an emergency center." Again, it will be appreciated that geolocalization data may be advantageously used providing indications for accessing an emergency center. In this subsection, the patient may therefore have access to a list of emergency centers. The emergency centers may be displayed on a map with corresponding contact information as well as direction and estimate time for reaching those emergency centers as shown in Fig. 17h.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that having a "safety plan" readily available is of great interest for the patient.

Now referring to Fig. 18a, there is shown a first user interface entitled

"signs to detect" in which the patient may enter what are the potential signs of a relapse. It will be appreciated that the information is provided by the patient with the help of the clinician.

Referring to Fig. 18b, there is shown a second user interface entitled "early warning signs," in which a patient may provide information with a clinician on what are the early warning signs before a depressive relapse.

Referring to Fig. 18c, there is shown a third user interface entitled "measures to take," in which a patient provides information with a clinician on what are the measures that should be placed in the case where early warning signs appear. Referring to Fig. 18d, there is shown a user interface entitled "actions to take" in which a patient may provide information with the clinician on what are the actions that should be taken in case of a depressive relapse.

Referring to Fig. 18e, there is shown an example of an email generated using the answers to the questions listed in Figs. 18a, 18b, 18c and 18d. The email may be then sent to himself and to the clinician.

According to processing step 212, an individual is contacted using the smartphone if a suicidal condition is detected. In this case, a plurality of numbers is dialed as further explained below.

Now referring to Fig. 19, there is shown an embodiment for contacting an individual using the smartphone.

According to processing step 2702, a plurality of individuals is contacted using the smartphone.

In an embodiment, the smartphone dials a given phone number. A telephony server will receive the call from the smartphone, detects that it is a given smartphone that has contacted it and, based on the detection, simultaneously dial a given plurality of numbers in parallel. In one embodiment, the telephony server is integrated with the server disclosed above. It will be appreciated that the given plurality of numbers is associated with a corresponding plurality of individuals that have been identified by both the patient and the clinician as resources in case of emergencies. Still in an embodiment, five individuals may be contacted in parallel.

In accordance with processing step 2704, a test is performed in order to find out if at least one individual answers the call. In an embodiment, the test comprises detecting a voicemail and a given amount of time without an answer. In one embodiment, the given amount of time without an answer is 15 s.

In the case where at least one individual answers the call and in accordance with processing step 2706, the at least one individual is put into a conference call with the patient. It will be appreciated that the number of individuals who can be put into a conference call with the patient may be limited to a given number. In an embodiment, the given number of users who may be simultaneously put into a conference call with the patient is limited to two. In the case where more than two individuals answer the call, the first two individuals are put into a conference call with the patient and the other individuals are provided with a recorded voice message thanking them for having answered the call. The skilled addressee will appreciate that various alternative embodiments may be provided.

In the case no one answers the call and in accordance with processing step 2708, a crisis center is contacted.

While this has not been shown in Fig. 19, it will be appreciated that a notification may be also sent to a corresponding clinician. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the notification may be sent according to various embodiments. In accordance with one embodiment, the notification is sent using an SMS message. The SMS message may comprise information such as a phone number of the patient, etc.

It will be appreciated that the embodiment disclosed in Fig. 19 is of great advantage since it enables the patient to have access rapidly to an entire list of predefined individuals during a crisis. It will be further appreciated that the smartphone is advantageously used to contact the individuals via the server, which is of great advantage. Also and in the case where there is not at least one individual for answering the call, the patient is automatically directed to a crisis center, which is also of great advantage.

It will be appreciated that there is also disclosed a smartphone for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression.

In this embodiment, the smartphone comprises a display device, a central processing unit, a communication port for connecting the smartphone to another processing device and for communicating with another phone, an input/output port for enabling the user to interact with the smartphone, and a memory unit.

The memory unit comprises instructions for providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient on a user interface displayed on the display unit.

The memory unit further comprises instructions for providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface displayed on the display unit. The memory unit further comprises instructions for receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient.

The memory unit further comprises instructions for providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition.

The memory unit further comprises instructions for, if the suicidal condition is detected, using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

A computer-readable storage medium is also disclosed. The computer- readable storage medium comprising computer-readable instructions which when executed cause a smartphone to execute a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient; providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient; receiving from the patient an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application; providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition and if the suicidal condition is detected, using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

Clause 1 : A method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising:

the patient executing an application on a smartphone;

providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient on a user interface of the application;

providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application;

receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application;

providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition; and if the suicidal condition is detected, using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

Clause 2: The method as claimed in clause 1 , wherein the executing of an application on a smartphone comprises providing an application and configuring the application from a website.

Clause 3: The method as claimed in clause 2, wherein the providing of the application comprises downloading the application.

Clause 4: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 2 to 3, wherein the configuring of the application comprises customizing the application depending on particulars of the patient.

Clause 5: The method as claimed in clause 4, wherein the customizing of the application to the patient is performed by the clinician.

Clause 6: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the providing of the patient with an access on a user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for understanding depression.

Clause 7: The method as claimed in clause 6, wherein the information displayed for understanding depression comprises at least one video for understanding depression.

Clause 8: The method as claimed in clause 6, wherein the providing of the patient with an access on a user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression. Clause 9: The method as claimed in clause 8, wherein the information for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression comprises at least one video for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression.

Clause 10: The method as claimed in clause 6, wherein the providing of the patient with an access on the user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for informing the patient on appropriate life habits.

Clause 1 1 : The method as claimed in clause 10, wherein the displaying of the information on the user interface comprises displaying customized text to the patient.

Clause 12: The method as claimed in clause 1 1 , wherein the customized text is provided by the clinician.

Clause 13: The method as claimed in clause 1 1 , wherein the displaying of the information on the user interface informing the patient on appropriate life habits further comprises displaying a list of at least one reference.

Clause 14: The method as claimed in clause 13, wherein the list of at least one reference comprises at least one of hyperlinks and phone numbers which may be accessed by the patient using the smartphone. Clause 15: The method as claimed in any ones of clause 1 to 15, further comprising the clinician updating at least one part of the information associated with a corresponding customized treatment.

Clause 16: The method as claimed in clause 15, wherein the updating of at least one part of the information associated with a corresponding customized treatment is performed by the clinician using an access to a server operatively connected to the smartphone. Clause 17: The method as claimed in clause 1 , wherein the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards behavioral activation. Clause 18: The method as claimed in clause 17, wherein the providing of the patient with at least one exercise directed toward behavioral activation comprises displaying on the user interface an invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated at given time intervals for an activity. Clause 19: The method as claimed in clause 18, wherein the displaying on the user interface of the invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated is performed following an invitation.

Clause 20: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 19, wherein the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards cognitive restructuration.

Clause 21 : The method as claimed in clause 20, wherein the providing of the patient with an exercise directed towards cognitive restructuration comprises inviting the patient to describe an event that led to a given emotion on the user interface of the application, inviting the patient to provide an indication of the given emotion linked to the event and a corresponding intensity on the user interface of the application, inviting the patient to provide an indication of an automatic thought and a corresponding intensity and inviting the patient to provide an indication of a new thought, and providing a request to reevaluate the intensity level of the given emotion on the user interface of the application. Clause 22: The method as claimed in clause 1 , wherein the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards resolution of problem. Clause 23: The method as claimed in clause 22, wherein the providing of the patient with at least one exercise directed toward resolution of problem comprises requesting the patient to define a given problem and its attitude towards the given problem on the user interface of the application, requesting the patient to provide at least one solution on the user interface of the application and requesting the patient to select at least one solution to implement it on the user interface of the application.

Clause 24: The method as claimed in clause 23, wherein the requesting the patient to select at least one solution to implement it on the user interface of the application comprises creating a calendar event and evaluating the at least one solution on the user interface of the application.

Clause 25: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 24, wherein the receiving of an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application comprises assessing a level of joy/sadness, assessing a lack of interest/pleasure and assessing a level of despair/hope on the user interface of the application.

Clause 26: The method as claimed in clause 25, wherein at least one precursor signal is entered, further comprising inviting the patient to identify, on the user interface of the application, if a given precursor sign of the entered at least one precursor sign is present. Clause 27: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 26, wherein the providing of the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition comprises displaying on the user interface of the application a visual element, the visual element for accessing a section for providing safety information to the patient.

Clause 28: The method as claimed in clause 27, wherein the section for providing safety information to the patient comprises a section for displaying information on an environment of the patient and its control, a section for displaying at least one precursor sign entered by the patient, a section for displaying coping strategies entered by the patient, a section for enabling the patient to contact at least one of a friend and a family member using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact the clinician using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center using the smartphone.

Clause 29: The method as claimed in clause 28, wherein the plurality of numbers dialed are corresponding numbers of individuals from a list of a plurality of individuals provided by the patient, the list of a plurality of individuals comprising the at least one of a friend and a family member.

Clause 30: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 29, wherein the dialing is performed in parallel using a telephony server.

Clause 31 : The method as claimed in clause 30, wherein a test is performed in order to find out if at least one individual answers and further wherein at least a given individual is put in a conference call with the patient if the at least one given individual answers.

Clause 32: The method as claimed in clause 31 , wherein a maximum of two individuals are allowed to access the conference call.

Clause 33: The method as claimed in clause 31 , further comprising contacting a crisis center if no one answers the call. Clause 34: The method as claimed in clause 31 , further comprising sending an SMS message to the clinician.

Clause 35: The method as claimed in clause 27, wherein the section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center comprises a section for providing directions to a given emergency center.

Clause 36: The method as claimed in clause 35, wherein the given emergency center is selected by the application depending on a geographic location of the patient.

Clause 37: A smartphone for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the smartphone comprising:

a display device;

a central processing unit;

a communication port for connecting the smartphone to another processing device and for communicating with another phone;

an input output port for enabling the user to interact with the smartphone; and

a memory unit comprising:

instructions for providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient on a user interface displayed on the display unit;

instructions for providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface displayed on the display unit;

instructions for receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient;

instructions for providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition; and if the suicidal condition is detected, instructions for using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

Clause 38: A computer-readable storage medium comprising computer- readable instructions which when executed cause a smartphone to execute a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising:

providing the patient with an access to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment for the patient;

providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient;

receiving from the patient an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application;

Although the above description relates to a specific embodiments as presently contemplated by the inventor, it will be understood that the invention in its broad aspect includes mechanical and functional equivalents of the elements described herein.

Now referring to Fig. 16a and 16b, it will be appreciated that an alert may be created. It will be appreciated that the alert may be generated for a given time of the day and for a given day of the week.

The skilled addressee will appreciate that the alert is created for inviting the patient to evaluate a current mood.

Now referring to Fig. 17a, there is shown an example of a user interface showing various items of a "safety plan." The "safety plan" may be accessed by the patient in the application. Referring to Fig. 7, the patient can access the "safety plan" by the section button 518, which is an embodiment of a visual element. This button is present most of the time in the user interface. In this embodiment, the "safety plan" comprises six items shown hereinbelow.

Referring to Fig. 17b, a first item of the "safety plan" is a button for enabling the patient to access a subsection entitled "Get my life environment more secure and control what I have access to." It will be appreciated that the data of this subsection is initially provided by the patient and the clinician.

Referring to Fig. 17c, a second item of the "safety plan" is a button for enabling the patient to access a subsection entitled "Precursor signs, consult your precursor signs established with your clinician." It will be appreciated that the data of this subsection is initially provided by the patient and the clinician.

Referring to Fig. 17d, a third item of the "safety plan" is a button for enabling the patient to access a subsection entitled "Strategies; use my coping strategies." It will be appreciated that the coping strategies are strategies to be used in case of a suicidal crisis. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the data of this subsection is initially provided by the patient and the clinician.

Referring to Fig. 17e, a fourth item of the "safety plan" is a button for enabling the patient to access a subsection entitled "Personal support; contact a friend or family." It will be appreciated that this section is used for initiating a call blast using which the patient can reach at least one individual in a suicidal crisis. It will be appreciated that the data of this subsection is initially provided by the patient and the clinician.

23

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising:

the patient executing an application on a smartphone;

receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application;

2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the executing of an application on a smartphone comprises providing an application and configuring the application from a website.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the providing of the application comprises downloading the application.

4. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 2 to 3, wherein the configuring of the application comprises customizing the application depending on particulars of the patient.

5. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the customizing of the application to the patient is performed by the clinician.

6. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 1 to 5, wherein the providing of the patient with an access on a user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for understanding depression.

7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the information displayed for understanding depression comprises at least one video for understanding depression.

8. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the providing of the patient with an access on a user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the information for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression comprises at least one video for enabling the patient to understand how to treat depression.

10. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the providing of the patient with an access on the user interface of the application to information associated with a corresponding customized treatment comprises displaying information on the user interface for informing the patient on appropriate life habits.

11. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the displaying of the information on the user interface comprises displaying customized text to the patient.

12. The method as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the customized text is provided by the clinician.

13. The method as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the displaying of the information on the user interface informing the patient on appropriate life habits further comprises displaying a list of at least one reference.

14. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the list of at least one reference comprises at least one of hyperlinks and phone numbers which may be accessed by the patient using the smartphone.

15. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 1 to 15, further comprising the clinician updating at least one part of the information associated with a corresponding customized treatment.

16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the updating of at least one part of the information associated with a corresponding customized treatment is performed by the clinician using an access to a server operatively connected to the smartphone.

17. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards behavioral activation.

18. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein the providing of the patient with at least one exercise directed toward behavioral activation comprises displaying on the user interface an invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated at given time intervals for an activity.

19. The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the displaying on the user interface of the invitation to the patient to evaluate a level of pleasure and a corresponding level of control associated is performed following an invitation.

20. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 1 to 19, wherein the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards cognitive restructu ration.

21. The method as claimed in claim 20, wherein the providing of the patient with an exercise directed towards cognitive restructu ration comprises inviting the patient to describe an event that led to a given emotion on the user interface of the application, inviting the patient to provide an indication of the given emotion linked to the event and a corresponding intensity on the user interface of the application, inviting the patient to provide an indication of an automatic thought and a corresponding intensity and inviting the patient to provide an indication of a new thought, and providing a request to reevaluate the intensity level of the given emotion on the user interface of the application.

22. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the providing of the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface of the application comprises providing the patient with at least one exercise directed towards resolution of problem.

23. The method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the providing of the patient with at least one exercise directed toward resolution of problem comprises requesting the patient to define a given problem and its attitude towards the given problem on the user interface of the application, requesting the patient to provide at least one solution on the user interface of the application and requesting the patient to select at least one solution to implement it on the user interface of the application.

24. The method as claimed in claim 23, wherein the requesting the patient to select at least one solution to implement it on the user interface of the application comprises creating a calendar event and evaluating the at least one solution on the user interface of the application.

25. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 1 to 24, wherein the receiving of an indication of a current mood of the patient using the application comprises assessing a level of joy/sadness, assessing a lack of interest/pleasure and assessing a level of despair/hope on the user interface of the application.

26. The method as claimed in claim 25, wherein at least one precursor signal is entered, further comprising inviting the patient to identify, on the user interface of the application, if a given precursor sign of the entered at least one precursor sign is present.

27. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 1 to 26, wherein the providing of the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition comprises displaying on the user interface of the application a visual element, the visual element for accessing a section for providing safety information to the patient.

28. The method as claimed in claim 27, wherein the section for providing safety information to the patient comprises a section for displaying information on an environment of the patient and its control, a section for displaying at least one precursor sign entered by the patient, a section for displaying coping strategies entered by the patient, a section for enabling the patient to contact at least one of a friend and a family member using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact the clinician using the smartphone, a section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center using the smartphone.

29. The method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the plurality of numbers dialed are corresponding numbers of individuals from a list of a plurality of individuals provided by the patient, the list of a plurality of individuals comprising the at least one of a friend and a family member.

30. The method as claimed in any ones of claims 1 to 29, wherein the dialing is performed in parallel using a telephony server.

31 . The method as claimed in claim 30, wherein a test is performed in order to find out if at least one individual answers and further wherein at least a given individual is put in a conference call with the patient if the at least one given individual answers.

32. The method as claimed in claim 31 , wherein a maximum of two individuals are allowed to access the conference call.

33. The method as claimed in claim 31 , further comprising contacting a crisis center if no one answers the call.

34. The method as claimed in claim 31 , further comprising sending an SMS message to the clinician.

35. The method as claimed in claim 27, wherein the section for enabling the patient to contact an emergency center comprises a section for providing directions to a given emergency center.

36. The method as claimed in claim 35, wherein the given emergency center is selected by the application depending on a geographic location of the patient.

37. A smartphone for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the smartphone comprising:

a display device;

a central processing unit;

an input output port for enabling the user to interact with the smartphone; and

a memory unit comprising:

instructions for providing the patient with an access to prescription exercises associated with the patient on the user interface displayed on the display unit; instructions for receiving an indication of a current mood of the patient;

instructions for providing the patient with means for detecting a suicidal condition; and

if the suicidal condition is detected, instructions for using the smartphone to contact an individual, the using of the smartphone comprising automatically dialing a plurality of numbers.

38. A computer-readable storage medium comprising computer-readable instructions which when executed cause a smartphone to execute a method for assisting a patient followed by a clinician, the patient suffering from depression, the method comprising: