Technology has impacted the way we live living, which includes our capability for people to gain access to mental health services online. This is vital when you consider how the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 264 million are suffering from depression across the globe and a large portion of them also suffering from anxiety. Additional research conducted by WHO has revealed that 45 million people suffer from neurological or mental disorders across the globe. Additional studies have revealed that as high as 4% to 20% of Asia’s Pacific population is suffering from a mental health disorder that can be diagnosed.
This has led employers to find methods to ensure that they have their workers access mental health services. Studies have revealed an average of 42% all global employees have seen an improvement in their psychological health after the onset with the pandemic Covid-19. The epidemic caused many to feel a higher level of anxiety, as well as an APAC market indexes were above what the world average is of 30.5 percent, with 42.5 percent in Japan and 31.6 percent for China. In order to accommodate the growing need for accessibility to mental health numerous businesses have begun providing apps for mental health. They, for instance, BetterMe offers self-directed resources for mental health along with many alternatives to wellness. Find out more about a review of the advantages and disadvantages of a mental health apps that working.
The advantages for MHAs (mental health apps)
A study carried out in collaboration with Monash University discovered that 76 percent of people “would be interested in using their phone to manage their own mental health, if the app was free.” It’s no surprise that in this technological age MHA apps will be around for a while. Three benefits users can anticipate when using an MHA.
Accessibility is easy
Technology has brought about a multitude of new options in support for mental health and services. Mobile devices, like smartphones and tablets enable health care professionals and counselors to communicate with people in innovative ways and new channels.
One of the greatest benefits of a mental health app is the ease of access. China for instance, is the most enthusiastic about the importance of technology in the field of health and wellness having 91% respondents believing that technology plays a an impact on health and wellness. Thanks to technology, workers can now get mental health services on their phones.
MHAs can be a wonderful introduction to the field of mental health particularly to those brand new to the field. A lot of people are intimidated by the notion of face-to-face therapy in the traditional sense or are unable to pay the expenses associated with it. Others might be intimidated by the prospect of treatment for mental illness because of the negative stigmas that remain around the subject. Others who live in rural areas could face issues with accessing services in person. Accessing resources for mental health via personal devices allows people to access care at the ease and convenience at home.
Health benefits are boosted
A study conducted within the Asia-Pacific region in 2021 revealed that excessive workload and working long work hours were the most common mental health issues at the workplace. More than ever, it is crucial for employers to invest on their staff’s wellbeing and health. MHAs that are properly created have been found to provide a significant improvement in the mental health of users. In the year 2017, Torous and an international group of psychologists gathered data on the effectiveness of 22 mental health apps on smartphones. The findings, presented in the Journal of World Psychiatry, revealed that the apps for mental health made people feel less stressed and depressed. They also discovered that these apps helped decrease symptoms of schizophrenia, and some even assisted users quit smoking.
MHAs can be a straightforward and effective way for businesses to play their part to create an environment that is healthy for employees. It lets employees know that mental health access is an important consideration and provides an easy way to access the resources. The potential benefits of promoting employees’ mental health include an increase in productivity as well as a reduction in health care and disability expenses. In enticing employees to use the mental health services offered by MHAs, businesses can create a an environment that is positive and in which employees can prosper.
Lower costs
It can be difficult to afford when it comes to pursuing the field of mental health, because many think that therapy is an expensive endeavor. Because of their low cost and accessibility, apps for mental health can facilitate access to therapy more accessible. Employers who buy bulk packages from MHAs for services to their employees could assist those who would not be able pay for treatment.
Con-MHAs (mental Health Apps)
A IMS health study discovered that there are over 165,000 mental health apps for purchase in the present. Although these apps certainly have numerous positive qualities however, they also come with some negatives. Below are 3 of the frequently-cited negatives of mental health apps.
The lack of evidence-based effectiveness
The apps for mental health come in various dimensions and shapes. This means that it isn’t easy the HR professional to assess their effectiveness. A study by University of Liverpool revealed that there is no empirical evidence to support mental health apps in comparison to other kinds of self-help techniques.
A mental health app could provide self-guided journaling and reading on mental health, as well as breathing exercises. Another app for mental health may only provide counseling for mental health in English. Another mental health app may provide chat-based consultations. Each app will have their own rates of adoption and effectiveness.
How can efficacy be evaluated in the context of “mental health applications” are often not clearly defined boundaries of services?
Concerns surrounding privacy
Although the use of apps for mental health has risen exponentially in recent years, there are issues with regards to privacy. The apps handle sensitive personal information and it’s crucial that app developers find ways to ensure privacy for users of apps. Healthcare providers are working hard to tackle these issues: the Betterme app, for example is GDPR-compliant and ISO-certified.
Services are not sufficiently only limited
Because many apps for mental health are designed to reach an audience of all kinds there is a danger of not being appropriate for certain ailments. For instance, a meditation app like this one, for instance, could be ideal for those who have moderate level of anxiety. However, it isn’t in a position to provide much help to employees who are suffering from extreme burnout, depression or anxiety. Therapy booking apps are, however could be a great source of support to employees suffering from diagnosed mental health problems. The app will be unsuitable for those who just want financial guidance, life guidance or career guidance.
Services that BetterMe provides
After weighing the advantages and disadvantages of using mental health apps at working, it’s essential for employers to think carefully about which one best meets the requirements of their employees.
BetterMe provides innovative ways to improve your mental health, and practical ways to be stronger, more focused and motivated. The users are provided with numerous tools and resources to aid them in reaching their goals for mental health, which includes a unique, community-based approach that offers employees secure and inclusive support from their peers. Employees are able to schedule appointments for therapy sessions in person on topics such as anxiety, finance or health. They can also take part in group therapy as well as sharing session as well as access the self-help library and audio-based resources anytime they require.