How is Tech Improving Access to Mental Health Resources?
According to the National Alliance of Mental Health, the need for mental health services has increased over the past five years, and continued innovations are needed to reach all populations who need it. Teachers, in particular, are looking for more ways to support their students, especially with content that addresses grief, anxiety, and empathy. Technology, including apps, games, and VR, has become integral to many intervention models, especially for children and adults who might not otherwise be able to access services.
In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re looking at some of the ways technology is transforming the world of mental wellness.
Screenshot from the Endless Key Healthy Mind module
1. Healthy Mind, Healthy Body for All
The Endless Key, which brings engaging learning content and apps to offline communities, features many resources that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and overall mental-well being. The Healthy Mind series, geared towards students in grades 6-12, features videos that show different ways to practice self-care from morning rituals to journaling and meditation. The Healthy Body series compiles the best yoga, stretching and power walking videos for people of all ages. These curated videos for the mind and body are accessible without the internet, meaning families can engage in these self-care activities regardless of their location or connectivity.
2. The Trauma Zone Podcast
To address the gap in community access and services that she saw in Chicago, educator and public health advocate Dr. Jasmine James created The Trauma Zone, a communal healing hub that seeks to disrupt the harmful cycle of trauma by creating healing spaces and providing wrap-around services for communities in Chicago, with a priority for Black communities. As a content partner on the Endless Key, Dr. James is helping expand access to healing spaces across the globe, and is launching a podcast produced in collaboration with students, which will also be available on the Key
3. Virtual Reality for Exposure Therapy
Did you know that virtual reality (VR) technology was first used to improve mental health back in 1995? Researchers at Virginia Tech used VR to simulate environments at various altitudes for students who were afraid of heights; after the experiment, those treated with VR reported reduced anxiety and avoidance of heights. One apparently was able to even ride a real glass elevator up 72 flights - a feat the average person might find daunting. Since then, VR has continued to be a powerful tool for exposure therapy, giving therapists more control over the stimuli and environment and patients easier access to their fears
4. Video Games for Mental Health
Video games, being highly culturally relevant, have a lot of potential to add to the discourse around mental health, particularly in tackling stigmas around disorders or other challenges. For example, "Sea of Solitude" tackles the sensitive topic of loneliness and depression. Through its immersive storytelling and gameplay mechanics, the game follows a young woman’s personal journey through loneliness in a beautiful and evolving world, where nothing is quite what it seems. Through challenges, puzzles, and exploration, the game offers players an opportunity to reflect on and understand complex emotions. By fostering empathy and emotional connection, video games like "Sea of Solitude" are paving the way for the inclusion of mental health narratives in an interactive and engaging medium.
Technology has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of mental health support. From mindfulness apps to online therapy platforms, virtual reality treatments to video games, technology continues to break down barriers and empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being. As we embrace these innovations, it is crucial to remember that technology is a powerful tool that, when combined with professional guidance and human connection, can help us navigate the complexities of mental health with newfound confidence and resilience.