Technology has advanced in leaps and bounds over the past few decades, with the latest innovations having a profound impact on practically every industry. The popularity of virtual-based services continues to skyrocket as more people learn to embrace the benefits of living in a digital world.
Advancements in technology have had a particularly big impact on mental health and wellness spaces. The integration of technology makes it easier for therapists and counselors to empower their patients and help them manage their health issues. Here’s what to know about the intersection of mental health and digital wellness platforms, and what it means for the future of mental healthcare.
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The Importance of Mental Health
Mental well-being isn’t just about the absence of mental illness. Instead, it’s about obtaining and maintaining optimal mental health so you’re more resilient to life’s challenges and enjoy a high quality of life. A person who is mentally healthy typically finds it easier to rebound from setbacks more quickly and may find it easier to maintain quality relationships.
Investing in your mental wellness needs is well worth the money and effort you put into it. You don’t have to spend a fortune, either. Cheap therapy can make a huge difference in your life when you use it to help you grow, overcome past traumas, and thrive.
How Digital Wellness Platforms Support Your Mental Health Journey
Digital wellness tools can be an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to optimize their mental health. There are many tools available, and most of them can be customized to meet your unique needs. Here are a few specific digital wellness platforms and how they can support your mental health journey.
Remote Therapy and Counseling
Remote therapy (sometimes referred to as “virtual therapy” or “telehealth”) is making it easier than ever before to access mental health services. It allows users to connect with their preferred licensed therapist via telephone, video conferencing, chat conversations, or by email. Patients can now attend therapy sessions while sitting on their living room couch or while taking a lunch break. The flexibility of this digital wellness platform improves mental healthcare accessibility for a wide range of people.
Mobile Wellness Applications
Mobile wellness applications are becoming increasingly popular amongst people of all ages who care about their physical and mental well-being. They include wellness and habit trackers, exercise apps, meditation and breathing apps, and journaling apps to encourage self-reflection and stress management. If you’re seeing a therapist, you may want to ask them which mobile wellness applications they recommend to boost your overall well-being.
Online Support Groups
Digital wellness platforms make it easier for online support groups to organize and provide valuable services to community members. Online support groups can be very helpful for overcoming common mental health concerns, including addiction, depression, and anxiety. These groups provided much-needed understanding, empathy, and advice for those who feel overwhelmed and are looking for hope.
Digital Therapeutics
Digital therapeutics are software-based interventions designed to treat, prevent, or manage medical disorders or conditions, such as:
- Substance abuse disorders
- Chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes
- Mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
It comes in the form of wellness apps that are backed by clinical evidence. They aren’t designed to replace in-person therapy or care. However, they can help support caregiver efforts to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of a disorder or disease.
AI Support
Artificial intelligence is one of the most revolutionary technological advancements humankind has ever seen. Though it is still being discovered and fine-tuned, it is already making big waves in the mental healthcare industry. AI digital wellness platforms can enhance and support traditional mental health treatments. For example, fitness apps such as MyFitnessPal and Ada Health use integrated AI features to offer personalized feedback, symptom tracking, and smart coaching.
Virtual Exposure Therapy
Many people don’t realize that they can receive therapeutic mental health treatments without leaving their home. For example, virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy can be delivered by a licensed therapist during online treatments. VR exposure therapy may help people overcome real or imagined fears. It exposes patients to their fears in a controlled and safe way and has been used to treat PTSD, anxiety disorders, and phobias.
Personalization and Continuity of Care
Digital wellness platforms make it easier for patients to receive continuity of care for their mental health needs. Even if the patient moves far away from their provider, digital tools make it possible for them to continue receiving care from that same provider. Additionally, online wellness platforms make it easier for patients to access their digital records at any time and from any device with an internet connection.
Boost Your Mental Health With Digital Wellness Tools
Mental health is directly connected to physical health and wellness. If you continuously neglect your mental well-being, it’s only a matter of time before you experience negative repercussions to your overall health. On the other hand, prioritizing your mental wellness can have a positive impact on your overall well-being and help you adopt a more optimistic outlook on life. Consider utilizing these digital wellness tools to help you boost your mental health and quality of life.