a closer look: technology and mental health
Innovation, Support, and More
That is what technology offers in the realm of mental health. It also offers a host of issues when technology is misused: harms of social media, loss in confidence, increased anxiety, and problems in comparison.
Today’s page talks about the different benefits and problems that technology presents to our mental wellbeing.
Here are your check in questions
1. How does technology impact your mental health?
2. In one sentence, describe how technology has helped your wellbeing during the pandemic.
3. In one sentence, describe how technology has NOT helped your wellbeing during the pandemic.
technology will help in mental health research and treatment!
Why Technology Will Enable Better Mental Health
benefits and downsides of mental health and technology
Pros (+resources from the web)
Mental Health Apps: Headspace, Calm, Woebot, Mindshift
Improved Access to Health Care through Telehealth: “The services reduce costs, help patients feel more comfortable, and improve access for patients who can’t or won’t see a professional in person.” (“4 Important Mental Health Care Technology Innovations”)
Innovation
Virtual reality! patients can work on coping techniques in a safe environment without having to leave the house.
Development of sensors that can be installed on cellular devices can collect data to assess mental wellbeing conditions. These data points can help healthcare givers lay out a plan for treatment that is much more tailored to each individual’s needs.
What are your thoughts on technology for mental wellbeing?
Cons
A study from Duke University found that after 18 months of increased online use, adolescents exhibited issues in self-regulation, “the ability to control one’s behavior and emotions” (Moore).
The Impact on Body Image: The link between image based social media (eg. Instagram, Facebook) and greater body image concerns has been researched in adolescents. General browsing through social media seems to have a great impact on body image perceptions among young men and women, especially those who are vulnerable to comparing themselves to others in other areas of life.
Blue light from our phones can make us more anxious and depressed. It can also throw off our sleep cycles, and we know that poor quality sleep leads to poor mental wellbeing.
Resource: How to Put Down the Phone before bed.