What is SPARX?
SPARX is a self-help computer programme for young people with symptoms of depression. The programme has been developed by a team of specialists in treating adolescent depression from the University of Auckand. The project was led by Associate Professor Sally Merry. Metia Interactive designed the software. Funding has been provided by the Ministry of Health.
In order to actively engage young people, SPARX uses a 3D fantasy game environment and a custom-made soundtrack. The programme teaches skills to manage symptoms of depression, in a self-directed learning format.
Young people learn cognitive behavioural therapy techniques for dealing with symptoms of depression (e.g. dealing with negative thoughts, problem-solving, activity scheduling, and relaxation). It can be used with minimal oversight.
Users are able to customise their avatar and journey to the seven Provinces, each with a unique set of challenges and puzzles.
Our project is based on a successful pilot study carried out by Dr Karolina Stasiak, as part of her PhD.
We are finalising SPARX for release. We are hoping to make it available this year.
Please check our website for updates. Thank you for your interest.
Newsflash
We are proud to announce that SPARX won a World Summit Award 2011 in the category of e-Health and Environment. The World Summit Awards honour excellence in multimedia and e-Content creation. Forty winners (5 in each category) are selected from 100 countries. A special emphasis is placed on those projects which show the benefits of information and communication technology for the development of society at large.