Digital Mental Health: The Next Wave

Whilst ever-increasing digitalisation has seen technology radically transform the way we work and connect, when it comes to its impact on our mental health the connotations are more often than not negative. And often with good reason - the 2022 headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey found more than half of young people (57%) believe their mental health is getting worse, with 42% citing social media as the main reason for the decline.

Whilst the impact of technology in social media undoubtedly remains an ongoing concern, its application in the field of mental health is signalling exciting potential with a new wave of companies harnessing it's power to offer innovative solutions for improving mental health.

These digital tools are reshaping the mental health landscape, with evidence based offerings that are not only engaging and effective, but perhaps most crucially, accessible, at a time when service demand outstrips supply, and the associated cost is yet another barrier to overcome. Here, we explore some of the pioneering startups aiming to change the way we manage mental health.

1. Allico - Transforming Mental Wellness Through Connection

Allico (https://www.allico.io/) is a digital app designed to help the modern, everyday individual manage their ongoing personal growth and mental wellbeing journey. The app focuses on deep personalisation and behaviour support by getting and in depth understanding of an individuals behavioural profile to then help them find the right techniques and build their optimal wellbeing system that they can easily stick with and feel supported. The app showcases a diversity of subject matter experts in different fields of thinking from philosophy, to traditional psychology to mindfulness approaches - so there is something for every community.

2. 1 Giant Mind - Meditation Made Accessible

1 Giant Mind(https://www.1giantmind.com/) is an app on a mission to make meditation accessible to everyone. With its user-friendly interface and guided meditation sessions, it empowers users to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. By using technology to demystify and simplify meditation, 1 Giant Mind is helping individuals take control of their mental well-being.

3. Sleep Ninja - Nurturing Better Sleep for Mental Health

Sleep is a vital component of mental well-being, and Sleep Ninja(https://www.sleepninja.com/) understands this connection. This app employs cutting-edge technology to monitor and improve sleep patterns, ensuring that users wake up refreshed and ready to face the day. By addressing sleep issues, Sleep Ninja indirectly contributes to better mental health.

4. Smiling Mind - Mindfulness for All Ages

Smiling Mind(https://www.smilingmind.com.au/) is an Australian-based organisation dedicated to bringing mindfulness and meditation to individuals of all ages. Their app offers programs tailored for different age groups, from children to adults. By integrating mindfulness into daily life, Smiling Mind is helping users manage stress and boost their mental well-being.

5. MoodGYM - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in Your Pocket

MoodGYM (https://moodgym.com.au/) is an interactive online program that brings cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) principles to your smartphone. CBT is a proven method for addressing various mental health conditions, and MoodGYM makes it accessible to a broader audience. It's an excellent example of how evidence-based frameworks can be integrated into digital mental health tools.

Five Things to Look for in a Mental Health App or Digital Tool

With an array of mental health apps and tools available, it's important to choose the right one for your specific needs. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating these tools:

1. Don't Rely Solely on Ratings: High app ratings or download numbers don't necessarily equate to effectiveness. Research the app's credibility and track record.

2. Investigate the Developer: Look into the developer's experience and reputation in mental health. What other apps have they created?

3. Check the Privacy Policy: Ensure your data is protected. This is especially important for health-related apps.

4. Seek Evidence: Look for research supporting the app's effectiveness. Apps that have undergone empirical trials are typically more reliable.

5. Evaluate Evidence-Based Frameworks: Even if an app lacks extensive research, consider whether it's based on evidence-based frameworks, such as CBT. These are established principles in clinical psychology.

As technology continues to advance, it's inspiring to witness the growing number of startups and companies dedicated to enhancing mental health. The right tools and support can go a long way in helping us take charge of our mental well-being and support making it a priority in our increasingly digital lives.