A mobile app can improve the symptoms of one of the commonest mental health problem in students – even with limited engagement- according to university researchers.

Cerina uses the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy to treat Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – which affects a significant number of students, studies show.

Lead author Dr Ozlem Eylem-Van bergeijk from the University of Manchester – which conducted the study with Ulster University – said: “University students can sometimes be vulnerable to generalised anxiety disorder because the rigours of academic pressure and financial uncertainty, let alone the issues young people often go through when they leave home for the first time.

“But despite the need for treatments the availability of psychological services is patchy for students.

“And perceived stigma, long waiting times, service availability can restrict access to treatment.”