Today, there are a number of technology-driven solutions for mental health that connect individuals with qualified clinicians. Telehealth services like Done allow patients to receive the help they need remotely, including confidential and accurate medical diagnosis as well as prescription treatment. A tech-savvy approach to mental health can remove some of the key barriers to care by making it more comfortable, convenient, and affordable. It also empowers patients to reach their fullest potential by putting more control in their hands.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most exciting developments in mental health tech.
Telehealth
There have never been more options when it comes to receiving virtual mental health care. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a huge number of mental health professionals shifted to telehealth care in 2020.
Even after the height of the pandemic passed and in-person medical appointments increased overall, many mental health specialists chose to continue offering virtual care services. This has made visits much more convenient for clients, particularly if they would otherwise need to travel long distances, take time off of work, or arrange for childcare during their appointments. It’s also made it possible for mental health professionals to treat people from a wider geographical area. Importantly, there have been several studies that have found teletherapy appointments to be just as effective as in-person care.
Services like Done have taken the idea of virtual care to the next level by creating an accessible online platform for ADHD screening, diagnosis, and treatment — including prescription medications — from licensed ADHD clinicians. This type of service can be life-changing for someone who might otherwise struggle to find a local clinician with the expertise they need or who could benefit from the convenience of telehealth care.
Mental Health Apps
Mobile mental health apps are another exciting development in the tech landscape. These apps are great for connecting people to mental health services no matter where they are. And some offer 24/7 support, giving users the option to reach out for help day or night.
There are countless mobile mental health apps available now, each with its own features and services. Some are focused on digital cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mood tracking, or guided meditation. Others connect users directly to mental health professionals for support with live virtual sessions or asynchronous messaging. There are also apps that use chatbots or gamified exercises to help users work through certain challenges.
The ability to use a mobile app for mental health services lowers the barriers to access and provides convenience for countless users. There are some concerns about privacy and regulation, however, so it’s important to do your research before using a mobile app for mental health care.
VR Therapy
Virtual reality (VR) technology is closely associated with entertainment, but it has a wide array of practical applications. In the mental health field, clinicians have found that innovative VR therapies can help with the treatment of anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other conditions. For example, VR can help children with ADHD practice maintaining attention in a virtual classroom. By immersing clients in a virtual world, therapists may be able to help them develop practical skills and coping techniques or find relief from stress and anxiety.
At Done, we’re proud to be at the forefront of technological mental health innovations. Our services provide seamless accessibility, convenient interactions like video calls, and 24/7 support for individuals with ADHD. Start with a one-minute online clinical assessment today.
Resources:
https://hbr.org/2020/12/digital-tools-are-revolutionizing-mental-health-care-in-the-u-s
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/technology-and-the-future-of-mental-health-treatment
