“One of the difficulties facing recovering addicts is that once they’ve completed a course of structured rehabilitation, they often do not receive the vital comprehensive aftercare that is required to continue their healthy recovery. … The increasing personalization of technology and our ability to share and analyze large quantities of data are helping to uncover new solutions to helping addicts through the treatment and recovery process.”
The use of virtual therapy is growing in popularity, due to decreased stigma, availability in places where in-person services are few, and scheduling convenience. There are pluses and minuses to everything, and it may not be right for all situations. This article does a great job teasing out the pros and cons.
Wearable devices such as smartwatches, with their ability to monitor heart rate and other metrics, are now being used to help users engage in helpful activities when a negative indicator is detected. Empowering users to self-manage and use self-assessment tools is reaching students who may otherwise not seek help due to stigma.
A social media hashtag campaign is doing more than raising awareness. It's teaching users how to spot suicidal tendencies in others, so those in need can receive assistance and referrals.
"This initiative is aimed at mobilising the online community to play a part in preventing individuals from doing self-harm.
Digital health is helping many overcome obstacles related to resources and stigma in accessing mental health care, and also allowing more community partner involvement.
“[It’s] empowering people to be able to take control over their mental health needs through the digital route and connecting people with lived experiences.”
