What Role Could Wearable Tech Play in the Future of Mental Health Care?
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"Today, one in four Americans ages 18 and older has a diagnosable mental health disorder.1 Stress has become a mental health crisis on a national scale.2
People are looking for ways to relieve the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other conditions in a healthy and proactive way.
Getting exercise, journaling, medication, and therapy are all known strategies, but what about the option of a wearable device that monitors your brain activity similar to a fitness tracker?
The Latest Research and Products on the Market
A 2021 review of 18 studies showed that several different types of wearables are effective in detecting symptoms of depression.4 The devices that were a part of the study measured a number of components, including the temperature of a person’s skin, their heart rate, and monitored their motion during activity. Other studies found that devices could detect stress and anxiety symptoms by monitoring heart rate and breathing.
Skin Sensing Technology
The latest research shows how electrodermal activity (EDA) occurs in a person’s skin. That activity is influenced by the brain activity that deals with emotions. Thus, what’s going on in the skin is a result of what is happening in the brain.
The latest technology lets users know that their body is starting to have a reaction to what’s happening. With that knowledge and the calming response of music, it can keep their reaction from escalating.
What This Means For You
Wearables are empowering users to be aware of mental health challenges and take measures to help deal with their symptoms. The latest technology may even help stop an oncoming reaction before it escalates. While the research looks promising, weigh the pros and cons of a specific device to know if it’s right for you."
*This is new technology like nothing I've ever seen before! I know this may be similar to a FitBit or an Apple Watch, but it seems like this may be more specific for anxiety and depression. I think this is a great idea because it can help detect symptoms before they get worse and it can help people stop symptoms before they get worse! Do you think this technology is something you would try? What would you hope this technology would do that it doesn't do right now?*
#MentalHealthCare #WearableTechnology #Depression #Anxiety
Please find the full article at Very Well Mind!
The advancements in technology never cease to amaze me. I can see how this could be useful for some. But the question I have is, if it does in fact detect let's say depression, what can the wearer do at that time to help see the symptoms from worsening?
@NiaMostMysterious I think the wearer could practice some coping skills! For example, if the device is detecting the wearer's heart rate is going on, they can do some deep breathing or go for a walk to help calm themselves before symptoms get worse <3
@fruityPond7887
This sounds like it could be very helpful!
I would definitely be open to trying this!
The idea that it may involve to even stop an oncoming reaction is amazing!
Thanks for the post!💛✨
@innateJoy9602 That's great! I am glad that you would be willing to try it! It is incredible how far technology has come and how helpful it can be for our health. Thank you for reading and commenting! ❤️
@fruityPond7887 These gadgets could be very beneficial! Detecting disorders would be very useful at treating them effectively.
I would like to see similar gadgets for physical disorders as well such as cancer detectors.
Thank you for the interesting post!
@calmDew1576 Ooo that would be awesome for physical illnesses! It would save so many lives ❤️ Thank you for taking the time to read and reply!
