It is amazing how technology has evolved so rapidly in the last few decades. Likewise, there has been a lot of change in the world of mental health treatments. We will discuss in this blog post how advanced technology is used to treat mental illness and how it has contributed to improving patient outcomes.
Mental health treatments were traditionally offered in person and involved a great deal of back-and-forth between the patient and the therapist. As a result, patients often felt uncomfortable discussing their concerns with strangers who did not understand what they were going through.
Thankfully, today there are a number of treatment options available to those suffering from mental illness without having to leave their homes.
Types of Existing Technologies:
1) Mobile Apps:
In recent years, the development of mental health apps has expanded rapidly. The number of apps available in iTunes and Android stores is increasing every day. Nevertheless, the new technology frontier comes with some uncertainty due to the lack of industry regulation, which can lead to consumers wondering what they can trust.
However, it is more important to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of expanding mental health treatment into this new environment rather than focusing on where mobile research may lead.
2) Online support groups:
There are many online support groups available to people suffering from mental illness. The Internet provides individuals with the opportunity to communicate and connect with one another for the purpose of receiving assistance without the need to reveal their identity. People use this service during normal working hours or when they are unable to access treatment due to some reason.
You will need to determine whether the event takes place after work or only on weekends, or if there are any restrictions on the location. Nonetheless, these sites frequently provide more than just conversations about our problems. Educational resources are often available as well, so you can learn something new every day.
3) Telehealth
Telehealth technology is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows people who are not able to travel to an office in person to consult with a therapist or psychiatrist. Rural areas, for example, may be able to access mental health treatment without incurring higher transportation expenses.
Telehealth can also help individuals living in major cities to save money by reducing their travel expenses for regular medical appointments. Furthermore, there is no need to wait around for appointments when you could be doing other things, such as working.
4) A virtual reality system (VR)
Technology has largely ignored the area of mental health until recently. Games and applications utilizing virtual reality are helping therapists treat patients more effectively than ever before.
With the help of virtual reality games, individuals can simulate situations in which they might experience anxiety or other negative emotions. It is possible to prepare the individual for real-life scenarios by gradually exposing him or her to this innovative form of therapy in controlled settings.
Tips for using mental health technology:
You may be considering using technology, but you want to ensure that you do it correctly.
You can find out the credentials and experience of the app developer(s) by asking a trusted provider for their opinion.
Check iTunes for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy podcasts (if there aren’t enough resources available online). Chances are if an app claims to be “effective,” at least one of those studies will be on the page.
Also, we recommend you practice mindful use while using technology. When using technology, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, thoughts, and feelings.
Final Verdict:
The healthcare industry is experiencing rapid change, and many healthcare organizations are still figuring out how to adapt to these changes.
You should not hesitate to use the latest technologies in enhancing patient care in innovative ways, as long as you are clear about what they offer so far and where potential improvements may lie!
