How Does Telemedicine Improve Mental Health?

The World is going through a severe mental health crisis, especially the people of the U.S., where one in five adults is facing mental health issues, and half of them are not receiving treatment. ScienceDirect Studies show that mental health often results in social isolation and loneliness, which can worsen the symptoms of depression and anxiety and increase the risk of hospitalization.

However, with the help of telemedicine, these diseases can be cured due to the simplicity and ease of access in solitary circumstances. It offers myriad benefits to the patients, for instance, reducing travel expenses, allowing remote access to distant locations, reducing the anxiety of in-person meetings, and offering potential cost-saving complete health care systems. This research paper will help you determine how telemedicine improves mental health and provides a viable answer during difficult times. 

 

#1. Expand Access to Remote Areas

Telehealth platforms are essential in expanding access to mental health services in underserved and remote areas. In some parts of the US and many developing countries, health care is inaccessible and challenging for people living in remote regions.

Alaska, a state in the United States, has gone a step further by allowing telehealth providers from other jurisdictions to deliver medical services to its inhabitants. Moreover, the innovative use of technology during the Ebola outbreak in Africa from 2014 to 2016 showcased the importance of apps such as Ebola Contact Tracing (ECT) to save lives and combat diseases. 

 

#2. Time Efficiency and Convenience

After the evolution of telemedicine in the health industry, mental health counseling is easier than before. Patients no longer need to worry about traveling issues and commute timings, as they can now access services from their homes. Besides eliminating the headache of transportation, it also saves your travel expenses. This ease of access means that clients can fix their appointments into their available schedule timings.

The Central Valley of California is a 20,000-square-mile agricultural area surrounded by mountains, where it is hard to reach doctors for health facilities. Still, with the help of digital tools and the internet,  people can easily access doctors and medical institutions. 

 

#3. Easily Accessible to Health Professional

One of its benefits is that it makes healthcare easily accessible to health professionals. As mental illness becomes a common disease globally, the demand for Telemedicine becomes more welcoming. With the help of telemedicine, healthcare providers can consult with patients remotely, using video conferencing, chats, and other communication tools. You only need a stable internet connection and a smartphone camera to allow mental health specialists to locate you. Walgreens, for example, has grown its personnel in response to high demand for virtual services. 

 

#4. Addressing the Stigma of Mental Health 

Many people still feel confused and uncomfortable about mental health help because of the surrounding attitude and misunderstandings. As U.S. Surgeon General Dr David Scratcher said, this discomfort is even more muscular in rural areas. However, Telemedicine provides an effective solution through chats and phone calls in whatever case you feel easy. This solution not only gave them privacy but also gave them the idea of feeling less intimidated. People are reaching out more to these proven technology solutions as time passes.

 

#5. Effective and Proven Results 

According to the Journal of Global Health, empirical research supports telemental health services. According to research and surveys, video conferencing treatment is more successful and more accessible than traditional face-to-face sessions.

With a diverse range of health providers, technology convenience and Telemedicine stand as reliable and established solutions for providers and recipients of mental health services. Even now, colleges are developing academic programs to help students advance their careers and prepare them for this critical role in defining the telemedicine future. 

 

#6. Improve Addiction Treatment Landscape

Addicted drugs are becoming more severe and dangerous, especially in isolated areas, and get worse if not treated on time. These kinds of issues are mainly found in the rural and low-income areas. Also, they do not have access to mental health treatment. They heavily affect all places, like Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

The project provides access to mental health resources, especially for those needing it urgently. Telemedicine includes health administration, long-distance clinical care, and education. The patients who require care for stress and depression can be quickly assisted through it. 

 

In Conclusion 

This research article is all about telemedicine’s beneficial crux to improving health. 81% of people in the U.S. have access to mobile phones, and more than 50% are seeking mental health professionals.

So, after seeing the whole scenario, it is not unnecessary to say that Telemedicine is a perfect option to treat people’s mental health problems. They provide you with care and guide you through therapy for psychological stabilization. It is a risk service, promoting health and prolonging life as well. In the opinion of the researchers, Telemedicine is a significant step for people as it is valid, safe, and more convenient to get a sound mind and sound health.