Modern day medical science has found that technology has improved the lives of many global netizens. 2017 statistics show that just under 100% (99%) of adults in the USA own at least one electronic device; albeit a desktop computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
However, the converse is also true. Owning a smartphone or tablet that is always online also can lead to increased stress levels and mental health disorders because users are “always online.”
This creates a need in people to continually check their social media feeds, email, and texts. There is never a chance to relax because the need to know and keep up with the latest social news can be a driving factor that causes debilitating headaches, stress, and other mental health issues like burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Causes of mental health issues
At this juncture, it is also vital to note that the overuse of electronic devices is not the only cause of mental health disorders. We live in a complex world that is conducive to the development of mental health challenges.
Therefore, it is vital to understand what factors can be attributed to the development of mental health disease is so that we know how to treat it.
According to Webmd.com, medical science does not have a clear picture on the causes of mental illnesses. Moreover, “it is becoming clear through research that many of these conditions are caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.”
Treatments for mental illnesses
It is logical to assume that as the research into the causes of mental conditions provides the answers, medical experts so desperately need, treatment best practices will be modified accordingly. Current treatment regimes all agree that therapy offers a solid foundation for the management of mental illness.
Why?
Well, succinctly stated, most mental illnesses are a result of changing pathways in the brain. Furthermore, these conditions also change the brain’s structure. Brain structure impacts behaviour.
Therefore, therapy provides the mechanism that helps forge new pathways in the brain. New pathways equates to the formation of new structures in the brain. This allows for new behaviour patterns to be formed.
Therapy vs digital innovations
It is not always possible for people to attend one-on-one therapy sessions with a counsellor. This does not mean that counselling and therapy are taken off the table for these people.
The good news is that modern technology has provided the platform for the development of digital innovative therapy software applications.
Thus, if you need help, you still have the opportunity to seek out therapy. If you cannot afford it, you should try online therapy services like Betterhelp or Talkspace.
Both of these apps provide digital interaction with a trained therapist. The pair of apps can be compared here to find the nuances and differences between the two.
