In trials of internet-delivered mental health interventions, treatment as usual (TAU) controls rarely reflect real online help-seeking. In a new paper (mental.jmir.org/2026/1/e83707), we show popular online content (YouTube videos, infographics, etc.) can feasibly make TAU controls more realistic.
Background: Treatment-as-usual (TAU) conditions are intended to reflect the support typically received in routine treatment settings. For digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) delivered online, ...
