Mental Illness and Technology
During the 2010s, mental health issues among adolescents and adults began to deteriorate. The COVID-19 pandemic, a burnout-fueled professional exodus from healthcare, and the Anima Mentis adolescent mental health crisis were some of the causes of this downward trend.
Adolescent mental health worsened during the 2010s
Behavioral trends associated with mental health have been a growing problem across the United States since the early 2010s. These include self-harm, suicide attempts, and suicide. The prevalence of mental health disorders among young Americans has risen over the past decade. These findings are based on data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which tracked health issues in adults aged 12 and up from 1971 to 2017.
In addition, the number of people who seek help for mental health disorders has increased over the same period. This increase may be linked to the popularity of digital media among adolescents. However, it is not yet clear how increased use of digital media will affect mental health.
One reason the link between digital media and mental health is not clear is because most studies have been conducted on cross-sectional data. This type of data has problems of its own, as there is no way to eliminate all confounding variables.
COVID-19 pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of digital technology has increased across the globe. This has led to concerns about the health implications of long-term use. Studies have found that excessive screen time is linked to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Taking steps to promote healthy digital habits can help mitigate the negative effects.
A number of studies have used real-time data from surveys to provide a timely and valuable resource of information about population mental health. However, these studies have focused mainly on short-term effects. Therefore, it is important to monitor mental health impacts for at least a year after the immediate health crisis has ended.
Although there was a small increase in self-reported mental health problems, objectively measurable mental disorders did not increase. In addition, there is little evidence that self-harm and suicide have increased.
Burnout-fueled professional exodus from healthcare
Despite some early optimism about the health care industry, a burnout-fueled professional exodus is now a real threat to patient care. While the causes of burnout are complex, there are two main factors that have been cited as contributing to the problem.
The first is the shortage of health professionals. Health care workers are overworked and overstressed, leaving them exhausted and often without time to spend with patients. The lack of staff is a significant contributor to the burnout epidemic.
The second is the increase in health care regulations. Those regulations have increased the pressure on providers and have left them feeling overwhelmed. Several studies have shown that burnout is more common among physicians. This is not surprising considering that physicians are required to make decisions based on charts rather than in person.
Digital mental health tools
Increasing awareness and demand for mental health care has created a need for digital mental health tools. These technologies can help improve accessibility and quality of mental health care. Digital solutions can also support positive behavioral change. They are also available anytime, anywhere, and anonymously. Several companies are developing products based on evidence-based approaches.
In the past, mental health care providers and patients have been challenged by barriers to adoption of digital tools. These barriers include organizational and policy barriers. Some companies have been developing products based on evidence-based approaches, but there are still many gaps.
There is a need for additional efforts to ensure that users have the skills they need to make informed decisions about digital health products. In addition, there is a need for more evidence-based telehealth and virtual care products. These tools have the potential to expand access to care and improve affordability. Several companies are developing innovative solutions that combine digital tools and virtual care.
Anima Mentis
Using technology to treat mental health problems has the potential to improve access to care, reduce stigma, and increase equity. Yet, there is much to be concerned about. For instance, technology can only improve care if the technology is backed by evidence that it works.
One example of an innovative solution to treating mental illness is Anima Mentis, an Austrian company that uses a cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) platform to analyze patient data. The platform produces tailored recommendations that help patients avoid burnout and train their mental strength.
Technology is also being used to combat mental health disorders in other countries. For instance, the government-funded National Health Service in the United Kingdom has endorsed a telehealth service called Big White Wall. The service helps people with mental health problems by providing a safe place to talk.
