Elevating Mental Health by Embracing Technology

By Rebecca Barasa
In recent years, mental health and substance use challenges have been on the rise posing a significant concern on public health matters. People navigating through such illness need tremendous help to pull through in their journey to recovery which is seldom available.

Research posits that many people fail to enter into treatment because of various reasons among them being, a lack of motivation for change, stigma and confidentiality concerns, transportation barriers, homelessness and substandard housing, and a complicated system of care to treat SUDs which can lead to delays in treatment especially in rural areas there is the shortage of mental and SUDS health providers.

What if we embrace the use of technology to elevate mental health? Technology presents tools such as virtual support groups, digital self-care tools, mental health apps, social media awareness, remote counseling, and teletherapy for all which can be used to offer tailored mental health interventions and substance use treatments.
According to a 2022 depression Research and Treatment Meta-analysis by social worker Carly M. Charron and epidemiologist Kevin M. Gorey, E-therapy programs especially those involving video calls can be just as effective as in-person treatment. They suggest that Online therapy is a more accessible option for those who cannot afford traditional psychotherapy, struggle to commute to appointments, or are concerned about the perceived stigma of being seen entering a treatment center.

Virtual support groups for mental health have become increasingly popular and accessible. They offer a way for people to connect with others experiencing similar challenges, regardless of geographical location as well as motivation for change
Digital Health Hubs are dedicated community organizations and locations with trusted people on hand to help their service users overcome digital inclusion barriers so they can access relevant information and tools to improve their health and well-being.

Digital Health Hubs work to build networks and partnerships within communities across third sector and health care providers. This improves signposting and referrals between different sectors and enables wider reach within the community. To access digital health hub services, a client can digitally visit a digital hub organization for enhanced service offers and digital inclusion. This increases opportunities for clients to achieve priorities focused on improving health and well-being and reducing mental and SUD problems.
Remote therapy, or Internet-based psychotherapy, is a form of psychotherapy or related psychological practice in which a trained psychotherapist meets with a client via telephone, cellular phone, the Internet, or other electronic media.

Conclusively, if professionally moderated, these technologically advanced platforms can be reliable in offering mental health information, emotional support, community support and advice, and valuable treatment services. These groups can provide valuable peer support and help individuals feel less isolated use has the potential to enhance mental health awareness and shape positive help-seeking attitudes among people.
The use of digital media has the potential to be an effective tool for mental health campaigns and treatment, reaching a wide audience especially underserved populations by offering the required interventions on a timely basis.