COVID-19 And The Future Of Mental Health – Forbes

While most business sectors are suffering right now, there are a handful of industriesvirtual reality, medical devices, touch-free technologyin which the pandemic has catalyzed innovation and growth. Among them is virtual mental healthcare, which sees a steep increase in demand for all ages, but particularly in the teen and young adult demographic. With depression, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, and binge drinkingon the riseamong college students, and70 percent of teensstruggling with mental health issues, teletherapy can be a lifesaver.

While most business sectors are suffering right now, there are a handful of industriesvirtual ... [+] reality, medical devices, touch-free technologyin which the pandemic has catalyzed innovation and growth

Since foundingNewport Academyin 2008, Jamison Monroe has been conscious of the enormous potential for delivering behavioral healthcare services via technology; the Newport Academy team was ahead of the curve in launchingremote after-carefor alumni of their residential and outpatient programs. Having that infrastructure in place when the pandemic hit earlier this year enabled them to shift all outpatient services to virtual formats almost immediately, with the majority of patients and families continuing their participation. In recent weeks, as state guidelines and feasibility permit, Jamison and his team instituted hybrid modelsone or two days in person, with the remaining treatment hours delivered virtually. Throughout the pandemic, their residential treatment centers across the country have continued to operate at or near capacity, with rigorous safety guidelines in place. It is clear that mental healthcare is essential during a pandemic or notteens, young adults, and families have continued to seek care.

Mental Healthcare for the Plugged-In Generation

Virtual mental healthcare wont go away when the pandemic does. An evolving trend over the last several years will hopefully be a vital component in creating greater access to treatment, which is a significant concern; 2020 data shows that 60 percent of adults and youth with mental illnessarent getting the care they need. Ironically, Generation Z, which has suffered most fromthe negative psychological effects of technology, is most likely to benefit from virtual mental healthcare, not only because they are so much more comfortable with this medium than their parents and grandparents, but also because the demand among this generation is so great. The pandemics mental health impact is exacerbating what was already a youth mental health crisis, illustrated by thedrastic increase in suicide ratesin this age group over the last two decades.

And its getting worse: Researchreleasedshows that young adults are experiencing high rates of depression (43 percent), anxiety (45 percent), and PTSD (32 percent), associated with loneliness, isolation, and low distress tolerance. No wonder: Along with current fears and instabilities, Gen Z is facing uncertainty about what the future holds for them, both in the near term as colleges scramble to reconfigure learning, and down the road in an economy devastated by COVID. Many recent college graduates who were preparing to launch have been forced to return to their families either working remotely or fighting to enter a workforce that has been thrown into chaos. Mental healthcare to support executive functioning and interpersonal relationships will be key for these emerging adults as they move forward.

When Virtual Care Isnt

While there is no doubt that virtual mental healthcare is here to stay, and can make a tangible positive difference, that doesnt or should completely replace residential and in-person treatment: third-party research on treatment outcomes at Newport Academy for teens andNewport Institute, their program for young adults, makes it clear that sustainable healing for young people with trauma-related mental health issues and co-occurring disorders typically requires more than virtual care can provide. There is no substitute for the immersion experience offered in theresidential treatmentenvironment. The development of new habits and healthy coping mechanisms are integrated into every aspect of daily life.

Furthermore, the therapeutic process is not always about talking. Many of the most powerful evidence-based modalities, including experiential therapy, somatic approaches, and group work, cannot be adequately replicated online. Therefore, occupying the same physical space while adhering to safety guidelines, such as wearing masks, can be a worthwhile tradeoff for the benefits of a shared IRL experience. At first glance, masks may seem like a significant barrier in a field where communication and interpretation of emotions are the essential requirements. However, for skilled mental health professionals, facial expressions are only parts of a nuanced picture that encompasses gestures, words, body language, and tone of voice. Moreover, for young adults burdened by isolation and loneliness, there is no match for the curative power of authentic, in-person connection with a supportive community.

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COVID-19 And The Future Of Mental Health - Forbes