Mental Health and Technology: The Role of Apps and Wearables
The World Health Organization WHO conceptualizes mental health as a “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community”.
In this modern era mental health apps and wearables play a significant role in supporting individuals' well-being and improving access to mental health resources. These technological tools offer several benefits like:
Accessibility:
Apps and wearables provide convenient access to mental health support anytime and anywhere. And as there things are still a taboo in some parts of the world so this is helpful in such parts of the world. They can be used on smartphones, tablets, laptops or wearable devices, allowing users to engage with mental health resources on-the-go.
Monitoring and Tracking:
This is another thing. Many apps and wearables offer features that enable users to monitor and track their mental health. They can track mood, sleep patterns, physical activity, and stress levels, anxiety, providing users with valuable insights into their mental well-being over a period of time.
Self-Help and Skill Development:
These apps are of great help. Mental health apps often offer self-help techniques, such as guided meditation, relaxation exercises, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, relations methods etc. These resources can help individuals develop coping skills and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
Education :
Apps and wearables can serve as educational tools, providing information about mental health conditions, symptoms, and available treatments. They contribute to raising awareness, education and reducing stigma surrounding mental health.
Peer Support and Connection:
Having support matters a lot. Some apps offer online communities or support groups, allowing individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences. This help people in understanding that what they are going through is well-known and other people are also there who are going through the same phases. These platforms facilitate peer support, validation, and encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation.
Personalized Interventions:
Advanced apps and wearables leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to offer personalized interventions. They can analyze user data and provide tailored recommendations, suggestions, or interventions based on individual needs and preferences.
Mental health apps and wearables can complement traditional therapy by facilitating communication and information sharing between individuals and their mental health professionals. They can serve as tools for tracking progress, knowing about new things, sharing data, and enhancing the therapeutic process.
However, it’s essential to note that these apps and wearables are not a substitute for professional mental health care workers. They are best used as complementary tools and should not replace face-to-face therapy or medical treatment when necessary.
