Digital device for treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders and method therefor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a digital device for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders, and a method therefor. More specifically, the present invention relates to a digital device, which can be used for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders on the basis of a digital treatment module, and a method therefor.

Description

Digital devices and methods for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders based on a digital therapeutic module.

[0002] Digital therapeutics (DTx) are treatments utilizing digital technology. Unlike traditional drugs, they have virtually no toxicity or side effects. Developed as therapeutic devices or software, they are easy to transport and store. They can be readily supplied in large quantities to a large number of patients, allowing for lower unit prices for products or services. Furthermore, unlike existing digital health products, they offer clinically proven therapeutic effects while significantly reducing treatment costs.

[0003] Traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can occur when an individual experiences or is continuously exposed to significant physical or psychological stress, which can cause a variety of symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbance.

[0004] Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), one of the trauma and stress-related disorders, is a type of severe trauma and stress-related disorder that can appear after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or severely traumatic event, and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing symptoms (flashbacks), avoidance behavior, negative emotional states, and hypervigilance.

[0005] Treatment methods for trauma and stress-related disorders include cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy. Although these are recommended for individual implementation after visiting a hospital outpatient clinic, monitoring compliance and adherence is impossible, resulting in significant individual differences in implementation, which can negatively impact treatment outcomes.

[0006] Trauma and stress-related disorders are diseases that cause behavioral changes in depression and coping with situations, and lower the quality of life. However, it is difficult to find treatment methods that provide effective treatment, prevention, monitoring, and management specialized for trauma and stress-related disorders and that can be managed individually.

[0007] The present disclosure aims to address these issues by providing a digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders that can be easily utilized by patients without resistance, allows monitoring of compliance and adherence, and utilizes digital devices and applications.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders.

[0009] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a mobile application as a software as a medical device (SaMD, Software as a Medical Device) that functions as a medical device by itself without accompanying hardware.

[0010] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to establish a therapeutic hypothesis and a digital therapeutic hypothesis for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders based on a literature review and expert reviews of basic scientific papers and clinical trial papers on trauma and stress-related disorders, and to provide a digital device and application for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a rational design of an application for clinically verifying a digital treatment hypothesis for trauma and stress-related disorders and psychological trauma and implementing it as a digital therapeutic, and a digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders based on the same.

[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a digital device and method for applying a treatment method that combines eye movement therapy and mindfulness therapy.

[0013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders, which utilize digital devices and applications that patients can easily utilize without resistance and that enable monitoring of compliance or adherence.

[0014] The purposes of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other purposes and advantages of the present disclosure not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through the embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the purposes and advantages of the present disclosure can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0015] The present disclosure seeks to develop a digital device capable of effective treatment and management that can realistically improve the quality of life of patients by overcoming the limitations of existing trauma and stress-related disorder treatment technologies.

[0016] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders includes a memory for storing a digital application, and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the digital application to provide a first treatment module, wherein the first treatment module includes a first eye movement treatment module and a first mindfulness treatment module, wherein the first eye movement treatment module and the first mindfulness treatment module each include at least one first task to be followed by a first user, wherein the first eye movement treatment module includes an eye movement task for inducing an eye of the first user to reciprocate between a first position and a second position spaced apart from the first position, and the first mindfulness treatment module may include a positive thought induction task for suggesting a corrective thought corresponding to a negative thought input by the first user.

[0017] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may be provided with the first eye movement therapy module and the first mindfulness therapy module at predetermined time intervals.

[0018] In one embodiment, the eye movement task is configured to provide an image including at least one object for inducing eye movement of the first user, wherein the at least one object can repeatedly move in at least one of a pendulum motion, a left-right motion, and a diagonal motion relative to the first location and the second location spaced apart from the first location.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first mindfulness therapy module may further include a nature appreciation task, wherein the nature appreciation task may provide the first user with a video featuring a natural landscape.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first mindfulness therapy module may further include a physical activity task, wherein the physical activity task may cause the first user to perform light physical activity according to guidance.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first mindfulness therapy module may further include a self-assessment task, wherein the self-assessment task may enable the first user to rate an activity that is necessary for him or her or that he or she is good at, and perform the desired activity among the activities.

[0022] In one embodiment, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may further include a negative thought database stored in the memory, and the positive thought induction task may be configured to receive first input data related to a worry from the first user and derive first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data.

[0023] In one embodiment, the positive thought induction task may determine, in the process of deriving the first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data, negative thought data having a high word similarity with the first input data as the first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data.

[0024] In one embodiment, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may further include a modified thought database stored in the memory, and the positive thought induction task may be configured to provide at least one first modified thought data corresponding to the first negative thought data to the first user.

[0025] In one embodiment, the correction accident database may store correction accidents corresponding to each negative accident stored in the negative accident database.

[0026] In one embodiment, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders further comprises a sensor for measuring a heart rate of the first user, and the at least one processor may be configured to record a first heart rate of the first user in real time using the sensor, determine whether the first heart rate exceeds a predetermined reference heart rate, and, if it is detected that the first heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, temporarily suspend provision of the first treatment module and provide a deep breathing task.

[0027] In one embodiment, the at least one processor, after providing the deep breathing task, records a second heart rate of the first user using the sensor, determines whether the second heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, and provides the first treatment module again if it detects that the second heart rate is less than the reference heart rate.

[0028] In one embodiment, the at least one processor may record a third heart rate of the first user using the sensor after re-providing the first treatment module, determine whether the third heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, and terminate the re-provided first treatment module if it is detected that the third heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate.

[0029] In one embodiment, the at least one processor may generate the first tasks based on at least one of information received from the first user or input from the second user.

[0030] In one embodiment, the input from the second user may include a result prescribed by the second user to the first user.

[0031] In one embodiment, the at least one processor may monitor the first user's compliance with the first tasks, or collect the performance results for the first tasks by having the first user directly input the performance results for the first tasks.

[0032] In one embodiment, the at least one processor may record and provide visualization of the compliance or performance result of the first user.

[0033] In one embodiment, the at least one processor generates a second treatment module based on the compliance information and the performance result of the first user for the first task, the second treatment module including at least one of a second eye movement treatment module or a second mindfulness treatment module, and each of the second eye movement treatment module or the second mindfulness treatment module may include at least one second task to be followed by the first user.

[0034] A method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: providing a first treatment module by executing a digital application by at least one processor, wherein the first treatment module comprises a first eye movement treatment module and a first mindfulness treatment module, wherein each of the first eye movement treatment module and the first mindfulness treatment module comprises at least one first task to be followed by a first user, wherein the first eye movement treatment module comprises an eye movement task of inducing an eye of the first user to reciprocate between a first position and a second position spaced from the first position, and the first mindfulness treatment module may include a positive thought induction task of suggesting a corrective thought corresponding to a negative thought input by the first user.

[0035] In one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a program stored on a recording medium to cause a computer to execute the method.

[0036] In one embodiment, a computer-readable recording medium is provided having recorded thereon a program for executing a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure on a computer.

[0037] In one embodiment, a computer-readable recording medium is included that records a database used in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] The digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to the present disclosure can provide improved treatment effects for trauma and stress-related disorders by deriving a pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis of trauma and stress-related disorders and mental trauma, a digital treatment hypothesis, and presenting a digital task to a patient based on the same and collecting and analyzing the performance results.

[0039] Furthermore, the digital device and method according to the present disclosure can provide the effect of increasing treatment accessibility for patients with trauma and stress-related disorders. Furthermore, the digital device and method for treating trauma and stress-related disorders according to the present disclosure utilize auditory stimulation in conjunction with visual stimulation to facilitate effective eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and mindfulness therapy training can provide enhanced therapeutic effects through the integration of the two treatments.

[0040] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a digital device and method that apply an effective treatment method that combines eye movement therapy and mindfulness therapy.

[0041] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a digital device and method thereof that enhance the treatment effect of trauma and stress-related disorders by enabling a healthcare professional to monitor in real time whether a patient is compliant or adherent while performing tasks for treating trauma and stress-related disorders at home after a hospital outpatient visit.

[0042] In addition to the above, the specific effects of the present disclosure are described together with the specific matters for carrying out the disclosure below.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a method for specifying a patient-tailored digital prescription using a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a method for deriving a treatment module from a digital device for treating trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figures 3a to 3g illustrate examples of tasks according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and the method of collecting output data for each task. Specifically, each task aims to reduce a patient's negative emotions, thoughts, sensations, and stress.

[0046] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method of repeatedly performing an action according to feedback control in a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a service using a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the service includes a web for an administrator, a web for a healthcare professional, and a digital device configured to run a digital application (e.g., an application or 'app') for treating and managing a subject's trauma and stress-related disorders.

[0049] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a flow for providing a treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram showing the performance schedule and whether or not a task included in a treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is performed.

[0051] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the provision order of an eye movement treatment module and a mindfulness treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are exemplary diagrams each showing a treatment module provision screen in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 11A is a flowchart illustrating an operation of measuring a heart rate in a digital device for treating trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and an operation of determining whether to stop providing a task based on the measured heart rate.

[0054] FIG. 11b is a flowchart illustrating an operation of measuring a heart rate and an operation of determining whether to stop providing a task based on the measured heart rate in an application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 12 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen for stopping task provision due to an excess heart rate in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of a positive thinking induction task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b are exemplary diagrams each showing a screen for providing a positive thinking induction task in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of a nature appreciation task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 16 is an exemplary diagram showing an operation of monitoring the compliance of a first user in a nature appreciation task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b are flowcharts each illustrating the execution flow of a self-assessment task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of an eye movement treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 19 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen for providing an eye movement treatment module in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 20 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a sequence of providing an eye movement treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 21 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen for providing a deep breathing task included in an eye movement treatment module in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 22 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen that provides visualization of first user compliance or performance results in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 23a and FIG. 23b are exemplary diagrams each showing a screen when a digital application is provided on a wearable device in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of a web for healthcare professionals according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of a method for calculating compliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] To clarify the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In describing the present disclosure, if a detailed description of a related known function or component is determined to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure, the detailed description will be omitted. In the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are given the same reference numbers and symbols as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. For convenience of explanation, devices and methods are described together when necessary. Each operation of the present disclosure does not necessarily have to be performed in the described order and may be performed in parallel, selectively, or individually.

[0070] The terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure have been selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the present disclosure. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant embodiments. Therefore, the terms used in this specification should not be defined simply as names of terms, but rather based on their meanings and the overall content of the present disclosure.

[0071] Throughout this disclosure, singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Terms such as "comprise" or "have" should be understood to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. In other words, when it is said throughout this disclosure that a part "comprises" a certain component, this does not mean that other components are excluded, but rather that other components may be included, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0072] Expressions such as “at least one” modify the list of elements as a whole, and do not modify the elements of that list individually. For example, “at least one of A, B, and C” and “at least one of A, B, or C” refer to only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both B and C, both A and C, all of A, B, and C, or any combination thereof.

[0073] In addition, terms such as “...unit”, “...module”, etc. described in the present disclosure mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0074] Throughout this disclosure, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where the parts are "directly connected," but also cases where the parts are "electrically connected" with other elements intervening. Furthermore, when a part is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather includes other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0075] The expression “configured to” as used throughout this disclosure can be used interchangeably with, for example, “suitable for,” “having the capacity to,” “designed to,” “adapted to,” “made to,” or “capable of.” The term “configured to” does not necessarily mean something that is “specifically designed to” in terms of hardware. Instead, in some contexts, the expression “a system configured to” can mean that the system, together with other devices or components, is “capable of.” For example, the phrase “a processor configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C” may mean a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing those operations, or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or application processor) that can perform those operations by executing one or more software programs stored in memory.

[0076] Throughout this disclosure, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components; however, the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first component could be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component could also be referred to as a first component. The term "and / or" includes any combination of multiple related items or any one of multiple related items.

[0077] Throughout this disclosure, button input may mean an input in which a user controls the device by using a physical button attached to the device.

[0078] Throughout this disclosure, a terminal or terminal may include a UE (User Equipment), an MS (Mobile Station), a cellular phone, a smartphone, a smartwatch, a computer, or a multimedia system capable of performing communication functions. Of course, the foregoing examples are not limiting.

[0079] Conventional new drug development begins with identifying a medical need in the field, proposing a mechanism of action based on expert reviews and meta-analyses of the disease, and deriving a treatment hypothesis based on this. Furthermore, a library of drugs with expected therapeutic effects is prepared based on therapeutic potential. Candidates are then screened to identify them. These candidates undergo optimization and preclinical testing, confirming their efficacy and safety even before clinical trials, ultimately leading to the final selection of a candidate. After establishing the chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) for mass production, clinical trials are conducted to verify the pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis, and confirm the clinical efficacy and safety of the candidate drug.

[0080] From a patent perspective, drug targets and signaling, which are the upstream steps of new drug development, are subject to significant uncertainty. Furthermore, because they often rely on synthesizing and interpreting previously reported results, it's often difficult to establish the novelty of an invention. Conversely, despite numerous advances in new drug R&D methodologies, the invention of drugs that treat diseases by modulating drug targets and signaling requires the highest level of creativity, with the exception of some antibody and nucleic acid (DNA, RNA) therapeutics. Consequently, the molecular structure of a drug is the most crucial element in securing the strongest material patents in the new drug field.

[0081] Unlike drugs, which are strongly protected by material patents, digital therapeutics are fundamentally implemented as software. Given the inherent nature of digital therapeutics, and the clinical validation and approval processes required for them as therapeutics, the rational design of digital therapeutics for a given disease and the software implementation based on them constitute a highly creative and inventive process worthy of patent protection.

[0082] In other words, the core of digital therapeutics, such as those disclosed herein, lies in the rational design of a digital therapeutic suitable for the treatment of the disease in question and the development of specific software capable of clinical validation based on this design. From this perspective, the digital devices and applications implemented in the present disclosure for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders will be described in detail below.

[0083] One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a system for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders. In another embodiment, the system includes a digital device and / or a digital device configured to run a digital application for treating and managing a patient's trauma and stress-related disorders. Throughout this disclosure, the device may include a server, and the server may also be referred to as a device, or the device may be referred to as a server.

[0084] The digital device and method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders of the present disclosure described below were implemented based on the pathogenesis and treatment hypotheses derived from a literature review and expert review of clinical trial papers on stress.

[0085] In general, trauma and stress-related disorders are primarily caused by the traumatic event itself, but not everyone who experiences a traumatic event experiences this disorder, and it can be seen that psychological and biological pre-existing factors prior to experiencing the event are involved in the development of the disorder.

[0086] In the case of trauma and stress-related disorders, due to the nature of the disease, it is important to prioritize emotional control and stability throughout the overall treatment process for future recovery. In some patients, it is said that recovery is achieved simply by stabilizing the patient, requiring a significant amount of treatment time to be devoted to stabilization.

[0087] Representative methods of this stabilization technique include treatments using Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).

[0088] EMDR therapy uses rapid pendulum-like eye movements to help patients reduce anxiety-provoking thoughts and replace them with positive thoughts or images.

[0089] Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) helps alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress by focusing on one's experiences—emotions, thoughts, and sensations—in the moment and non-judgmentally observing one's mind. This process helps to interrupt immediate, automatic negative thoughts and de-focus on those triggering negative emotions. Recent studies have shown that mindfulness-based therapy is effective in treating trauma and stress-related disorders by restoring connectivity within large-scale brain networks (default, central executive, and inhibitory areas).

[0090] To implement this therapeutic hypothesis as a digital therapeutic, we propose a digital therapeutic hypothesis that achieves therapeutic effects through the performance of repetitive digital tasks.

[0091] A digital treatment hypothesis according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented as a digital device, system, application, etc. that presents specific tasks (instructions) for changing a patient's behavior (including behavioral, emotional, and cognitive domains), improving the environment, and patient participation, and collects and analyzes the performance thereof.

[0092] Literature reviews of the clinical trials described above can be conducted through meta-analysis and data mining, with clinical expert feedback and in-depth reviews applied at each analysis stage. Fundamentally, the present disclosure aims to extract pathogenesis and treatment hypotheses for trauma and stress-related disorders through the process described above, and based on this, to provide digital devices and applications as digital therapeutics for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

[0093] However, the method for extracting the pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis of trauma and stress-related disorders according to the present disclosure is not limited to the method described above, and the pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis of the disease can be extracted through various other methods.

[0094] In addition, the digital device and method according to the present disclosure provide a solution for symptom identification and management through monitoring in daily life rather than temporary monitoring, thereby preventing secondary mental health damage in patients with mental illness who are marginalized due to negative social perceptions of trauma and stress-related disorders, enabling management of a large number of patients regardless of physical and time limitations of limited medical personnel, thereby resolving social medical gap issues such as medical supply and regional bias, and enabling the provision of personalized health management services linked to health data.

[0095]

[0096] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a method for providing a patient-tailored digital prescription using a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Figure 1 (a) illustrates a process of providing a diagnosis and prescription of a second user (e.g., a health care professional, a medical staff) to a digital device, Figure 1 (b) illustrates a process of providing a digital device for managing and treating symptoms and / or behaviors of trauma and stress-related disorders to a first user (e.g., a patient), and Figure 1 (c) is a diagram illustrating input and output loops in a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 1(a) and 1(b), a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may provide digital therapeutics to a first user based on a diagnosis and prescription from a second user. In another embodiment, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may generate tasks to be followed by the first user based on information received from the first user or input from a second user (e.g., a prescription from a healthcare professional).

[0099] Referring to (c) of FIG. 1, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a digital prescription to a first user in the form of a task, and output a performance result for the digital task. Specifically, the patient's performance result for the digital task is composed of 1) task-performance login / logout information, 2) compliance information sensed by gaze activity, stress-related heart rate, step count, etc., and 3) information directly input by the patient as the performance result. In one embodiment, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may achieve treatment of symptoms and / or behaviors of trauma and stress-related disorders by repeatedly performing a feedback loop multiple times.

[0100] For example, the first digital task and performance results are given as input and output values ​​in a single loop. However, by utilizing the loop's feedback process over N iterations, the inputs and outputs generated in this loop can be reflected and adjusted to generate a new digital task for the next loop. By repeating this feedback loop, patient-tailored digital tasks can be derived while simultaneously maximizing therapeutic efficacy.

[0101] In this way, in a digital device and application for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the patient's digital task for the current round (e.g., round N) can be generated using data regarding the patient's digital task and task performance results provided in the previous round (e.g., round N-1). That is, the digital task for the next round can be generated based on the patient's digital task and task performance results generated in the previous loop. At this time, the feedback process can use various algorithms and statistical models as needed.

[0102] In this way, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can provide patients with personalized digital tasks through a feedback loop. Trauma and stress-related disorders, due to the nature of the disease, require ongoing treatment and monitoring. Due to this characteristic, the treatment of trauma and stress-related disorders can be more effectively achieved through gradual improvement in task performance through a feedback loop, rather than through simple repetition of task performance.

[0103]

[0104] FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a method for deriving a treatment module from a digital device for treating trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 2, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure enables a second user to prescribe a digital therapeutic implemented as a digital device for treating a trauma and stress-related disorder of a first user based on a pathogenesis, treatment hypothesis, and digital therapeutic hypothesis for trauma and stress-related disorders. The digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders can provide the patient with specific behavioral tasks that the patient can perform as a digital therapeutic prescription based on a treatment technique for trauma and stress-related disorders.

[0106] In one embodiment, a digital device for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders can derive treatment hypotheses based on the onset factors and symptoms of trauma and stress-related disorders, and utilize virtual parameters to match specific tasks to the management of onset symptoms. Furthermore, the digital device for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders can derive treatment modules necessary for the treatment of trauma and stress-related disorders by utilizing the correlation between "onset symptoms-virtual parameters-modules." Each treatment module is a basic design unit of a digital therapeutic implemented as an actual digital device and represents a set of specific tasks.

[0107] For example, the onset symptoms for developing treatment hypotheses for trauma and stress-related disorders may include intrusion symptoms, avoidance symptoms, negative changes in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal. Intrusion symptoms refer to the recurrent intrusion and re-experiencing of memories or emotions related to the stressful event. This may include recurring painful memories of the event, dreams, or acting and feeling as if the event were actually occurring. Patients may experience intense psychological distress or physiological reactions such as sweating and a racing heart. Avoidance symptoms involve avoiding activities, places, or people that remind them of the event, and attempting to avoid recalling related memories, thoughts, and feelings. Negative changes in cognition and mood manifest in negative changes in cognition and emotion related to the event. For example, patients may not remember important parts of the event or distort their understanding of its causes or consequences, leading to blame themselves or others. Patients may also be hypersensitive, have difficulty concentrating, startle at minor stimuli, and display irritability or outbursts of anger. They may also exhibit sleep difficulties, such as difficulty falling asleep or waking up easily. They may experience negative emotions like fear, anger, guilt, or shame, or feel distant and alienated from others, making it difficult to experience positive emotions like happiness, contentment, and love. Arousal symptoms occur after a highly stressful event, causing a constant feeling of being in danger, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep, concentrating, and becoming easily irritable.

[0108] For example, virtual parameters can be derived for reducing obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, stress, and depression, taking into account the first user's environmental, behavioral, emotional, and cognitive aspects. Control of these onset symptoms can be mapped to treatment modules using behavioral (movement and breathing), emotional (stress reduction), and cognitive (sense of accomplishment) virtual parameters.

[0109] In one embodiment, the first treatment module may include a first eye movement treatment module and a first mindfulness treatment module, and each of the first eye movement treatment module and the first mindfulness treatment module may include at least one first task to be followed by the first user.

[0110] In one embodiment, the first eye movement therapy module may include tasks such as eye movement and deep breathing, and the first mindfulness therapy module may include tasks such as breathing, inducing positive thinking, nature appreciation, physical activity, and self-evaluation.

[0111]

[0112] Figures 3a through 3g illustrate examples of activities and the method of collecting output data for each task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, each task aims to reduce the patient's negative emotions, thoughts, sensations, and stress.

[0113] Figure 3a illustrates a specific example of a breathing task included in the first mindfulness treatment module and a method for collecting output data. For example, the breathing task may include a series of behavioral instructions that reduce stress, including slow, comfortable physical exercise, rest, and relaxation. In one embodiment, the breathing task may include behavioral tasks that relax the body, such as relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and meditation. In one embodiment, the performance results of the task may be sensed using a biofeedback device (measuring EEG, ECG, EMG, EDG, etc.) or a general-purpose sensor (measuring activity, HR, etc.), or a method may include a first user (e.g., a patient) directly inputting the performance results.

[0114] Figure 3b illustrates a specific example of a positive thinking induction task included in the first mindfulness treatment module and the output data collection method. In one embodiment, the positive thinking induction task may include a task that presents a corrective thought corresponding to a negative thought input by the first user. For example, the positive thinking induction task may consist of organizing thoughts, writing down a concern, and selecting a corrective thought corresponding to the negative thought. This will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 13 to 14b.

[0115] Figure 3c illustrates a specific example of a nature appreciation task included in the first mindfulness treatment module and a method for collecting output data. In one embodiment, the nature appreciation task may provide the first user with a video featuring natural scenery, such as the ocean, the sky, or mountains. In one embodiment, the nature appreciation task may monitor the first user's compliance using eye tracking technology, such as eye movements, eye blinks, distant gaze, and eye closure. In another embodiment, the nature appreciation task may monitor the first user's compliance using technology that recognizes users within a radius that can be confirmed through a camera.

[0116] Additionally, the collection of performance results for nature appreciation tasks is not limited to user recognition using eye tracking technology or cameras, and includes direct input from the first user regarding the performance results for the task.

[0117] Figure 3d illustrates a specific example of a physical activity task included in the first mindfulness therapy module and a method for collecting output data. In one embodiment, the physical activity task may provide a task that requires the first user to perform light physical activity according to guidance. For example, light physical activity may include regulating breathing, securing space, paying attention to one's body, paying attention to the surroundings, walking, etc. In one embodiment, the performance results of the physical activity task may be monitored for compliance using a general-purpose sensor (measuring activity, number of steps, etc.). Furthermore, the collection of the performance results of the physical activity task is not limited to measurement using a general-purpose sensor, and may include direct input by the first user regarding the performance results of the task.

[0118] Figure 3e illustrates a specific example of a self-assessment task included in the first mindfulness therapy module and the output data collection method. In one embodiment, the self-assessment task may require the first user to rate activities they need or excel at, and then perform the desired activity.

[0119] Specifically, self-assessment tasks can include tasks that promote dopamine release through the primary user's performance and sense of accomplishment upon completion. For example, self-assessment tasks involve giving the primary user a task and allowing them to feel a sense of accomplishment upon completion. These tasks can be updated based on the primary user's participation period and include games that encourage voluntary participation. Furthermore, expressing a preference for the given task can increase interest and self-esteem. Examples of tasks include drinking a glass of water, stretching, singing a song, recalling a happy memory, writing a diary, organizing a schedule, watching a movie, cooking a delicious meal, creating a bucket list, or deciding on a desired travel destination and making plans.

[0120] Figure 3f illustrates a specific example of an eye movement task included in the first eye movement treatment module and a method for collecting output data. In one embodiment, the eye movement task may provide a task in which the first user's eyes reciprocate between a first location and a second location spaced from the first location. Specifically, the eye movement task may help alleviate anxiety-inducing thoughts in patients through eye movements and also help convert positive thoughts or images. In one embodiment, the eye movement task may monitor patient compliance using eye tracking technology, such as eye movements, eye position information, and movement counts. However, collecting performance results of the eye movement task is not limited to eye tracking technology, and may include direct patient input of performance results for the task. Eye movements will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 18 to 20.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 3g, specific examples of tasks and output data collection methods for the deep breathing task included in the first eye movement therapy module are illustrated. For example, deep breathing activities include behavioral tasks such as deep breathing and meditation. In one embodiment, the performance results can be monitored for compliance using a biofeedback device (measuring EEG, ECG, EMG, EDG, etc.) or a general-purpose sensor (measuring activity, HR, etc.). Furthermore, the collection of performance results for the deep breathing task is not limited to measurements using a biofeedback device or general-purpose sensor, and includes direct input by the first user regarding the performance results for the task.

[0122] In one embodiment, the biometric information of the first user can be collected through wearable sensors and devices, and the biometric information can include body temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, number of steps, amount of exercise, etc. In addition, in one embodiment, with the consent of the individual to use the information, a wearable device (e.g., clothes, watch, glasses, etc.) that uses biometric information and pattern measurement technology of the body can be used to measure biometric information, thereby analyzing city life such as health status, hobbies, diet, and surrounding information, and providing customized news information, product advertisements, health information, etc. suitable for the individual can be provided. In addition, one can check one's emotional state and cycle anytime and anywhere through the existing commercialized wearable type biometric information measuring device, and can provide various biometric information services by analyzing and recording biometric signal data in daily life.

[0123] As mentioned above, digital therapy according to the present disclosure requires patient participation for at least six weeks. During this period, diligently completing the tasks in the modules described above can foster a sense of accomplishment in the patient. A praise (reward) task can be created within the achievement module. In praise tasks, the patient's active participation in treatment can be fed back as a sense of accomplishment through trust and reward between the patient and caregiver, and between the patient and doctor.

[0124] The digital tasks shown in FIGS. 3A to 3G above are merely exemplary, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the digital tasks provided to the patient may be provided in various ways depending on the case.

[0125]

[0126] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 4, a method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may first generate a treatment module for treating trauma and stress-related disorders based on information received from a first user or input from a second user (S410). At this time, the information received from the first user may include, for example, the first user's basal factors, medical information, and digital therapeutics literacy. Specifically, the basal factors include the first user's activity level, heart rate, sleep, and meals (including nutrition and calories), the medical information includes the first user's electronic medical record (EMR), family history, genetic vulnerability, and genetic susceptibility, and the digital therapeutics literacy includes the subject's accessibility and acceptance of digital therapeutics and devices. In one embodiment, the input from the second user may include the results of a prescription given by the second user to the first user.

[0128] In another embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders can generate a treatment module from the pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis of trauma and stress-related disorders (S410).

[0129] In step S420, a specific task can be generated based on the treatment module. A digital therapeutic module can be created by applying virtual parameters regarding the patient's environment, behavior, emotions, and cognition to the pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis for trauma and stress-related disorders. As this has been described in Figure 2, a detailed description will be omitted.

[0130] In one embodiment, the treatment module may include an eye movement therapy module and a mindfulness therapy module. In one embodiment, the eye movement therapy module may include an eye movement task and a deep breathing task. In one embodiment, the mindfulness therapy module may include at least one of a breathing task, a positive thinking induction task, a nature appreciation task, a physical activity task, and a self-evaluation task. The performance environment settings and descriptions of the specific tasks for each module are as described in Figures 3a to 3g.

[0131] In step S430, the generated treatment module and task can be provided to the first user. In this case, the task is related to behavior, emotion, and cognition. It can be provided in the form of a task that monitors the first user's compliance with the task using sensors, such as eye movement / body movement, or a task in which the patient directly inputs the performance results. Once the first user performs the presented task, the first user's performance results can be collected (S440).

[0132]

[0133] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method of repeatedly performing an action according to feedback control in a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 5, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders is described in which the generation of a treatment module and tasks included therein and the collection of performance results are performed N times. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may repeatedly perform the steps of generating a treatment module and collecting the performance results of a first user for a task multiple times according to a feedback loop. In this case, the step of generating a task may generate a task for the current time based on the task provided in the previous time and the performance result data for the task of the first user collected.

[0135] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may receive information from a first user or input from a second user (e.g., a prescription from a healthcare professional) (S510). In another embodiment, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may receive input regarding the pathogenesis of trauma and stress-related disorders and treatment hypotheses (S510).

[0136] In step S520, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders can receive the treatment module provided in the previous session and the performance result data of the first user. If the currently being performed session is the first, there is no previous data, so step S520 can be omitted.

[0137] In S530, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders can generate a treatment module and tasks included in the treatment module to be followed by the first user based on the treatment module and performance outcome data provided in the previous session. If the current session is the first, the treatment module and tasks included in the treatment module to be followed by the first user can be generated based on the information of the first user or input from the second user.

[0138] In another embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress related disorders can generate a treatment module and tasks included in the treatment module for a first user to follow based on the input pathogenesis and treatment hypothesis of trauma and stress related disorders, treatment modules provided in previous sessions, and performance outcome data.

[0139] In S540, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders can collect the user's performance results for the generated treatment module and tasks included in the treatment module.

[0140] In step S550, it is determined whether the current round is greater than or equal to the Nth round. If the current round is less than the Nth round (NO), the process returns to step S520 and steps S520 to S540 are repeated. On the other hand, if the current round is greater than or equal to the Nth round (YES), i.e., if the process of generating the treatment module and collecting the execution results has been performed N times, the feedback operation can be terminated.

[0141]

[0142] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a service using a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the service includes a web for an administrator, a web for a healthcare professional (second user), and a digital device configured to execute a digital application (e.g., an application or 'app') for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders of a subject (first user).

[0143] In one embodiment, an administrator can issue a healthcare professional an account via the web and review de-identified subject information (e.g., age, prescription information, and status of completion of one or more digital therapeutic modules or sessions).

[0144] In one embodiment, a subject account can be issued through a healthcare professional website, and a subject app (digital application) can be provided to the first user based on the second user's diagnosis and prescription. In one embodiment, the healthcare professional website can review identified subject information (e.g., age, prescription information, and completion status of one or more digital therapeutic modules or sessions).

[0145] In one embodiment, a first user performs a task through a subject app, and the results of the first user's task performance can be stored on a server and provided to an administrator or a second user.

[0146]

[0147] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a process for providing a treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 7, a task to be performed by the first user can be generated based on the period of time since the treatment module was provided and the first user's performance record. For example, if the first user has completed the mindfulness treatment module n times in a given week, the screen for day (n-1) of that week is provided. If the first user has completed the mindfulness treatment module less than 5 times or the eye movement treatment module less than 2 times in that week, the first user is provided with a task to be performed. If both the mindfulness treatment module 5 times and the eye movement treatment module 2 times are completed, the activity is marked as completed.

[0148] In one embodiment, the treatment module may consist of seven digital therapeutic modules, including five mindfulness therapy modules and two eye movement therapy modules. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous combinations of the number and type(s) of digital therapeutic modules that can be incorporated into a given session.

[0149]

[0150] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a schedule for performing tasks included in a treatment module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and whether or not they are performed. Referring to FIG. 8, a first user may be provided with tasks included in the treatment module for five days in each week over six weeks. In another embodiment, the schedule for performing tasks provided to the first user may be any week, and the number of times the first user is provided with tasks included in the treatment module in each week may be any number. For example, the treatment module may be provided for one week or more, two weeks or more, three weeks or more, four weeks or more, five weeks or more, six weeks or more, seven weeks or more, eight weeks or more, nine weeks or more, or ten weeks or more. Additionally, the treatment module may be provided once or more, twice or more, three times or more, four times or more, or five times or more in each week.

[0151] In one embodiment, the first mindfulness therapy module and the first eye movement therapy module may be provided together on the same day. In another embodiment, the first mindfulness therapy module and the first eye movement therapy module may be provided on different days.

[0152]

[0153] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a provision order of an eye movement therapy module and a mindfulness therapy module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 9, the eye movement therapy module may be provided to a first user after a task included in the mindfulness therapy module is performed and it is determined that the mindfulness therapy module is completed. For example, if the first mindfulness therapy module and the first eye movement therapy module are provided together on the same day, the first mindfulness therapy module may be provided first and completed, and then the first eye movement therapy module may be provided. As another example, if the first mindfulness therapy module and the first eye movement therapy module are provided on different days, the first eye movement therapy module may be provided after the first mindfulness therapy module is provided and completed. In one embodiment, the first eye movement therapy module and the first mindfulness therapy module may be provided at predetermined time intervals.

[0154]

[0155] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are exemplary diagrams illustrating a treatment module provision screen in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 10a, if both the mindfulness therapy module and the eye movement therapy module are performed less than a set number of times in a given week, both the mindfulness therapy module and the eye movement therapy module may be provided to the first user (case 1). If the eye movement therapy module is performed the set number of times in a given week, the box indicating the eye movement therapy module is checked, and only the mindfulness therapy module may be provided to the first user (case 2). If the mindfulness therapy module is performed the set number of times in a given week, the box indicating the mindfulness therapy module is checked, and only the eye movement therapy module may be provided to the first user (case 3).

[0157] Referring to Figure 10b, the digital application may provide information (such as week number, date, and specific task name) regarding the treatment module provided to the first user. For example, if the treatment module is first provided to the user, it may be provided as the daily task for Day 1 of Week 1, indicating that a specific task (e.g., a breathing task) included in the first mindfulness treatment module is provided.

[0158]

[0159] FIG. 11A is a flowchart illustrating an operation of measuring a heart rate in a digital device for treating trauma and stress-related disorders according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and an operation of determining whether to stop providing a task based on the measured heart rate. Referring to FIG. 11A, the digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a first treatment module to a first user (S610), then checks whether the first heart rate exceeds a preset reference heart rate, and if it detects that the first heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate (S620, YES), provision of the first treatment module is temporarily stopped (S630), and a deep breathing task for lowering the heart rate of the first user can be provided (S640). If it is detected in step S620 that the first heart rate is lower than the reference heart rate (NO), the deep breathing task may not be provided, and the ongoing treatment module may be continuously provided (S660). In this disclosure, a deep breathing task is used as an example to describe a task for lowering the heart rate of a first user, but is not limited thereto and may include various tasks such as meditation, listening to quiet music, and watching a comfortable video.

[0160] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may provide the first treatment module again (S660) if, after providing a deep breathing task, it is detected that the second heart rate is below the reference heart rate (S650, NO). In step S650, if the second heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate (YES), the deep breathing task may be provided again (S640).

[0161] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders may record a third heart rate of a first user using a sensor after reproviding a first treatment module, determine whether the third heart rate exceeds a reference heart rate, and if it detects that the third heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate (S670, YES), terminate the reprovided first treatment module. In step S670, if the third heart rate is lower than the reference heart rate (NO), the reprovided first treatment module may continue to be provided (S680).

[0162] FIG. 11b is a flowchart illustrating an operation of measuring a heart rate and an operation of determining whether to stop providing a task based on the measured heart rate in an application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 11B, an application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may explain to a first user the 'today's task' to be performed by the first user among the first tasks included in the first treatment module and start the first treatment module. After the first treatment module is started, the application may check whether a sensor (e.g., a wearable device) for measuring the first user's heart rate is connected, record the first user's first heart rate in real time using the sensor during the first treatment module, check whether the first heart rate exceeds a preset reference heart rate, and if it detects that the first user's first heart rate exceeds the preset reference heart rate, pause the first treatment module and provide a deep breathing task. For example, the reference heart rate may be 120 bpm. In another embodiment, even if the first heart rate does not exceed the reference heart rate, the first user may pause the first treatment module on his / her own and then start the first treatment module again, or may arbitrarily terminate the first treatment module.

[0164] In one embodiment, the application may provide the first treatment module again after providing the deep breathing task, and repeat the steps of measuring the second heart rate of the first user and providing the deep breathing task during the first treatment module. In another embodiment, the application may not provide the first treatment module if the deep breathing task is provided more than twice a day due to a heart rate exceeding the threshold.

[0165] In another embodiment, the application may record a second heart rate of the first user using a sensor after providing a deep breathing task, determine whether the second heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, and re-provide the first treatment module if the second heart rate is detected to be below the reference heart rate.

[0166] In one embodiment, after the first treatment module is re-provided, when the count of the first task time is completed and the task ends, the final heart rate of the first user is measured and the first treatment module may be terminated. In another embodiment, after the first treatment module is re-provided, the application may record the third heart rate of the first user using a sensor, determine whether the third heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, and if it detects that the third heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, terminate the first treatment module that is re-provided.

[0167]

[0168] Figure 12 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen for suspending task provision due to an excessive heart rate in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 12, the digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may temporarily suspend provision of the first treatment module and provide a deep breathing task screen when the first user's heart rate exceeds a predetermined reference heart rate. For example, the digital application may prompt the first user to take a deep breath according to the screen.

[0169]

[0170] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of a positive thinking induction task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders further comprises a negative thought database stored in a memory, wherein the positive thought induction task is configured to receive first input data related to a worry from a first user and derive first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data.

[0172] In one embodiment, the positive thought induction task may determine, in the process of deriving first negative thought data corresponding to first input data, negative thought data having a high word similarity with the first input data as the first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data.

[0173] In one embodiment, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders further comprises a modified thought database stored in memory, wherein the positive thought induction task may be configured to provide at least one first modified thought data corresponding to a first negative thought data to the first user. In one embodiment, the modified thought database may be a separate server storing modified thoughts corresponding to each negative thought stored in the negative thought database.

[0174] Specifically, the content of the modified thoughts stored in the modified thoughts database may include alternative thoughts that help the first user escape negative thoughts. For example, these may include statements such as, "I'm coping better than I thought," "I have many strengths," "I don't always have to do my best," and "I love and cherish myself."

[0175]

[0176] FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b are exemplary diagrams illustrating a screen for providing a positive thinking induction task in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 14a, a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure explains a positive thinking induction task to a first user. Upon receiving a task start button input signal from the first user, the positive thinking induction task is immediately initiated or a screen is provided for inputting first input data (worry) related to the user's concern. For example, a pop-up window is provided within the digital application screen for the user to write down the user's concern, and the first input data can be entered multiple times.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 14b, a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may generate an image containing the first input data and provide it to a first user. The image containing the first input data may be a cloud shape, but is not limited thereto. Various images expressing negative emotions may be used.

[0179] In one embodiment, a digital application may provide the first user with first corrective thought data upon receiving a click signal from the first user on an image containing first input data. For example, as the corrective thought data provided to the first user is provided, the first input data entered by the first user may disappear into an image, such as a cloud with rain falling. This provides an image that visually relieves worries, inducing positive emotions in the first user and resulting in a stress-reducing effect. When all the dark clouds disappear, an image of a clear sky appears, and the ending screen of the positive thought-inducing task is provided.

[0180]

[0181] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of a nature appreciation task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 15, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a nature appreciation task. For example, the nature appreciation task may provide a first user with nature images on themes such as the ocean, mountains, sky, rivers, fields, forests, and streets for a set period of time. If the video provided to the first user is 10 minutes long, a single video may be provided, or multiple short videos may be provided consecutively.

[0182] In one embodiment, the nature appreciation task can monitor the first user's compliance using a sensor (e.g., a front camera) and pause or resume the task accordingly. This will be described in detail later in FIG. 16.

[0183]

[0184] FIG. 16 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an operation of monitoring the compliance of a first user in a nature appreciation task according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 16, if a sensor (e.g., a front camera) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure does not recognize the first user, the provision of the nature appreciation task may be stopped and a pause screen may be provided. Specifically, if the first user is recognized within the radius of the front camera, the nature appreciation task is provided, and if the first user is located outside the radius of the front camera, the nature appreciation task is stopped. With regard to the sensor, the first user may be recognized using a technology that can determine whether the user is present in front of the screen, such as facial recognition, motion detection, depth information analysis, or an infrared sensor.

[0185]

[0186] FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b are flowcharts illustrating the execution flow of a self-assessment task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 17a, a self-assessment task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a task that allows a first user to rate an activity that is necessary for him or her or that he or she is good at, and perform a desired activity among them.

[0188] In one embodiment, the digital application may provide a task screen that allows the first user to rate an activity (Activity A) that the first user needs (e.g., drinking water, monologue, recalling a pleasant memory, stretching, doodling, etc.) as much as the first user needs, and to rate an activity (Activity B) that the first user is good at (e.g., organizing a schedule, organizing ideas, creating a presentation, summarizing meeting results, etc.). The self-evaluation task presents recommended activities in order of highest rating among the activities that the first user has rated highly, and allows the first user to perform the activity of the first user's choice.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 17b, a self-assessment task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a task that allows a first user to rate activities he or she likes (e.g., listening to music, eating delicious food, exercising, reading a book, etc.) and perform the desired activity among them.

[0190]

[0191] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of an eye movement therapy module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 18, the eye movement therapy module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an eye movement task, and then, upon completion of the eye movement task, provide a deep breathing task. For example, upon completion of the eye movement task, a deep breathing task may be provided, and upon completion of the deep breathing task and the eye movement therapy module having completed a predetermined number of times or less, the eye movement task and deep breathing task may be provided again.

[0192]

[0193] FIG. 19 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen providing an eye movement treatment module in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 19, a first user can pause an eye movement task during its execution, or resume the task after pausing.

[0194] In one embodiment, the first eye movement treatment module may include an eye movement task in which the first user's eyes reciprocate between a first position (120) and a second position (130) spaced from the first position.

[0195] In one embodiment, the eye movement task may be configured to provide an image including at least one object (110) for inducing eye movement of the first user. For example, a circular dot may start at the center and move back and forth to the left and right.

[0196] In one embodiment, at least one object (110) included in an image provided in an eye movement task can repeatedly move in at least one of a pendulum motion, a left-right motion, and a diagonal motion based on a first position (120) and a second position (130) spaced apart from the first position.

[0197]

[0198] FIG. 20 is an exemplary diagram illustrating the order of providing an eye movement therapy module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 20, eye movement tasks according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided in the following order: left-side high diagonal movement, right-side high diagonal movement, left-right movement, and pendulum movement. Furthermore, the eye movement therapy module may be provided in four sets, each consisting of an eye movement task (30 seconds) and a deep breathing task (60 seconds). However, the task provision time and composition are not limited thereto and may be provided in various combinations.

[0199]

[0200] FIG. 21 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen for providing a deep breathing task included in an eye movement treatment module in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 21, a deep breathing task according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be guided through a screen of a digital application, and may be provided in the form of a gauge within an execution screen decreasing over time during the exhalation and inhalation stages. For example, if the inhalation is 4 seconds and the exhalation is 6 seconds, a screen in which the gauge gradually decreases over each period of time is provided, thereby allowing the first user to inhale and exhale for a sufficient amount of time, thereby inducing stability.

[0201]

[0202] FIG. 22 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a screen that provides visualizations of a first user's compliance or performance results in a digital application according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 22, a digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can record, visualize, and provide the first user's compliance or performance results through a processor. For example, the performance results of a mindfulness therapy module or an eye movement therapy module can be provided in the form of a bar graph so that they can be checked on a daily basis.

[0203] In one embodiment, the digital application provides visualizations of compliance or performance results to motivate and provide a sense of accomplishment to the user.

[0204]

[0205]

[0206] FIG. 23a and FIG. 23b are exemplary diagrams showing screens when a digital application is provided on a wearable device in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 23a, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, a digital application running on a wearable device may display an image indicating the remaining time for a current task and the current task on the screen. For example, if the current task is a walking exercise, an animation of a character walking may be displayed. If the first user has completed the entire task, an animation indicating completion may be displayed.

[0208] In one embodiment, a digital application may provide data regarding the current heart rate or step count of a first user via the screen of the digital application running on the wearable device. For example, if the user's heart rate is within a predetermined normal range, an icon representing the heart rate may be displayed in green. If the heart rate exceeds the predetermined range, the icon representing the heart rate may be displayed in red to convey a warning message.

[0209]

[0210] FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating the execution flow of a web for healthcare professionals according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0211] In one embodiment, the web for health care professionals provides one or more options to the health care professional, and the one or more options provided to the health care professional are selected from the group consisting of adding or removing a subject, viewing or editing personal information about a subject, viewing compliance information about a subject, reviewing a subject's results for one or more treatment modules that have been at least partially completed, prescribing one or more treatment modules to a subject, changing a prescription for one or more treatment modules, and communicating with a subject.

[0212] In one embodiment, one or more of the options includes viewing or editing personal information about the subject, the personal information including one or more selected from the group consisting of the subject's identification number, the subject's name, the subject's date of birth, the subject's email, the subject's guardian's email, the subject's phone number, the subject's prescriptions, and one or more notes written by a healthcare provider about the subject.

[0213] In one embodiment, the personal information comprises a prescription for the subject, the prescription for the subject comprising one or more selected from the group consisting of a prescription identification number, a prescription type, a start date, a duration, an end date, a number of treatment modules scheduled or prescribed to be performed by the subject, and a number of digital treatment modules scheduled or prescribed to be performed by the subject per day.

[0214] In one embodiment, one or more of the options includes viewing adherence information, wherein the subject's adherence information includes a calendar identifying one or more of a plurality of scheduled or prescribed treatment modules to be completed by the subject, and one or more dates on which the subject completed, partially completed, or did not complete the one or more scheduled or prescribed treatment modules.

[0215] In one embodiment, one or more of the options include viewing the subject's results for one or more treatment modules that have been at least partially completed, wherein the subject's results include one or more selected from the group consisting of a time the subject started the scheduled or digital treatment module, a time the subject finished the scheduled or prescribed treatment module, and an indicator of whether the scheduled or prescribed treatment module was fully or partially completed.

[0216]

[0217] FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of a method for calculating compliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0218] Referring to FIG. 25, Compliance can be calculated as the Performance Rate divided by the Progress Rate. Specifically, the Progress Rate can be calculated by dividing the number of days the treatment module was performed by the prescription period (e.g., 6 weeks). The Performance Rate can be calculated by dividing the total task performance time of the first user within the prescription period (e.g., 6 weeks) by the sum of the performance time of the mindfulness treatment module (e.g., 10 minutes) multiplied by the number of mindfulness treatment modules per week (e.g., 5 times) and the performance time of the eye movement treatment module (e.g., 6 minutes) multiplied by the number of eye movement treatment modules per week (e.g., 2 times) multiplied by the user's prescription period (e.g., 6 weeks).

[0219]

[0220]

[0221] An embodiment of the present disclosure may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically contains computer-readable instructions, data structures, or program modules, and includes any information delivery media.

[0222] The above description of the present disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present disclosure can be readily modified into other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, components described as being single may be implemented in a distributed manner, and similarly, components described as being distributed may be implemented in a combined manner.

[0223] The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims described below rather than the detailed description above, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalent concepts should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. As a digital apparatus for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders, A memory for storing a digital application; and comprising at least one processor; wherein said at least one processor is configured to execute said digital application to provide a first treatment module; The first treatment module includes a first eye movement treatment module and a first mindfulness treatment module, Each of the first eye movement treatment module and the first mindfulness treatment module includes at least one first task to be followed by the first user, The above first eye movement treatment module includes an eye movement task that induces the first user's eyes to reciprocally move between a first position and a second position spaced from the first position. The first mindfulness treatment module includes a positive thinking induction task that presents corrective thoughts corresponding to negative thoughts entered by the first user. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

2. In paragraph 1, The first eye movement treatment module and the first mindfulness treatment module are provided at predetermined time intervals. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

3. In paragraph 1, The above eye movement task is, configured to provide an image including at least one object for inducing eye movement of the first user; The at least one object repeatedly moves in at least one of a pendulum motion, a left-right motion, and a diagonal motion based on the first position and the second position. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

4. In paragraph 1, The first mindfulness therapy module further includes a nature appreciation task, The above nature appreciation task provides a video with a natural landscape theme to the first user. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

5. In paragraph 1, The first mindfulness therapy module further includes a physical activity task, The above physical activity task is to have the first user perform light physical activity according to guidance messages. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

6. In paragraph 1, The first mindfulness therapy module further includes a self-assessment task, The above self-assessment task allows the first user to rate the activities that he or she needs or is good at and perform the desired activity among them. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

7. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a database of negative incidents stored in the above memory, The above positive thinking induction task is, Receive first input data related to a concern from the first user, configured to derive first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data, Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

8. In paragraph 7, The above positive thinking induction task is, In the process of deriving the first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data, The first input data and the negative thought data having a high word similarity are judged as the first negative thought data corresponding to the first input data. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

9. In paragraph 7, Further comprising a database of modified accidents stored in the above memory, The above positive thinking induction task is, configured to provide at least one first corrected accident data corresponding to the first negative accident data to the first user, Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

10. In paragraph 9, The above modified accident database is, Each negative incident stored in the above negative incident database and the corresponding corrected incident are stored, Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

11. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor for measuring the heart rate of the first user; At least one processor of the above, Recording the first heart rate of the first user in real time using the above sensor; Check whether the above first heart rate exceeds a preset reference heart rate; A digital device for treating and managing trauma and stress related disorders, configured to temporarily suspend provision of the first treatment module and provide a deep breathing task when detecting that the first heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate.

12. In paragraph 11, At least one of the above processors After providing the above deep breathing task, Recording the second heart rate of the first user using the above sensor; Check whether the above second heart rate exceeds the above reference heart rate; If it is detected that the second heart rate is lower than the reference heart rate, the first treatment module is provided again. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

13. In paragraph 12, At least one processor of the above, After re-providing the above first treatment module, Recording the third heart rate of the first user using the above sensor; Check whether the above third heart rate exceeds the above reference heart rate; If it is detected that the third heart rate exceeds the reference heart rate, the first treatment module provided again is terminated. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

14. In paragraph 1, At least one processor of the above, Generating the first tasks based on at least one of the information received from the first user or the input from the second user, Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

15. In paragraph 14, The input from the second user is: Including the results prescribed by the second user to the first user, Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

16. In paragraph 1, At least one processor of the above, Monitoring the compliance of the first user with respect to the first tasks, or collecting the performance results of the first tasks by having the first user directly input the performance results of the first tasks. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

17. In paragraph 16, At least one processor of the above, Recording and visualizing the above compliance or performance results of the above first user and providing them; Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

18. In paragraph 16, At least one processor of the above, Generate a second treatment module based on the compliance information and performance results of the first user for the first task, The second treatment module comprises at least one of a second eye movement treatment module or a second mindfulness treatment module, Each of the second eye movement treatment module or the second mindfulness treatment module comprises at least one second task to be followed by the first user. Digital devices for the treatment and management of trauma and stress-related disorders.

19. As a method for treating and managing trauma and stress-related disorders, Comprising a step of providing a first treatment module by executing a digital application by at least one processor, The first treatment module includes a first eye movement treatment module and a first mindfulness treatment module, Each of the first eye movement treatment module or the first mindfulness treatment module includes at least one first task to be followed by the first user, The above first eye movement treatment module includes an eye movement task that induces the first user's eyes to reciprocally move between a first position and a second position spaced from the first position. The first mindfulness treatment module includes a positive thinking induction task that presents corrective thoughts corresponding to negative thoughts entered by the first user. Methods for the treatment and management of trauma and stress related disorders.

20. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for executing the method of Article 19 on a computer.

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