Digital Mental Health Resources

Digital Mental Health Resources

With the offering of face-to-face therapy and treatment services, you may question the value and nature of digital mental health resources. Naturally, like any other online offering, there are both positives and negatives to such platforms.

However, while utilised correctly and effectively, digital mental health tools, apps and online communities can offer significant value throughout both mental health acknowledgement and recovery.

Of course, it is recommended that you’re vigilant with the online information that you digest, the types of online therapy that you invest in and the intentions of blogs, vlogs and podcasts that you listen to.

Yet, with such vigilance, digital self-help is a great way to regain control, recover remotely, and work on your rehabilitation outside of active treatment sessions.

Here are some benefits of online tools, to answer the commonly asked question of ‘why use digital mental health resources?’, along with some guidance on the types of tools and information to take notice of.

For more information on online recovery steps, mental health apps and forms of self-help, reach out here at Rehab Clinics Group.

 

The benefits of using digital mental health resources

Digital mental health resources are offered to carry many benefits. Unfortunately, as more individuals struggle with their mental health, an online offering of support provides a filler service, can provide credible guidance and can join the dots between acknowledgement and mental health recovery.

Utilising online tools, communities and apps offer convenience, it provides privacy for those who are struggling with fears of judgment and stigmatisation. Such action can be time-saving, can offer flexibility, and can provide mental health support, truly in a time of need, with urgency as an asset.

Access to blogs, vlogs and podcasts also offer the benefits of perspective, familiarity, inspiration and motivation to recover, source support and maintain a positive lifestyle.

Being able to access digital mental health resources that genuinely resonate on a personal level, from anywhere with an internet connection can truly offer reassurance, can support at an immediate rate and can help many individuals through mental health symptoms.

Down to such a range, there’s an online community or app for everyone, meaning that digital mental health resources are a valuable tool to make use of, in conjunction with professional support.

 

Protecting your mental health online

While there are benefits, there are risks to online tools, such as social media and unreliable platforms for information. Through digital usage, it’s very important that you only connect with credible sources, where your privacy can be maintained, and your mental health protected.

There are many dangerous and unfriendly sources out there, where trolls are active, where discouraged advice is present, and where your triggers may reside.

It’s therefore important to make use of the right form of resources, to ensure that you’re protected and experiencing the benefits of digital mental health tools.

For example, social media can stand as a trigger for many individuals, from the display of ideology to the presence of trolls. You may find it hard to consume such content without feeling low or negative, which isn’t worth the risk.

There are safe havens on social media, including rule-driven groups. However, you should be careful and selective when utilising such resources.

There’s also a wealth of unreliable information found online, which may work for one person, yet may not be recommended on medical terms. You should avoid such information, and only read and follow information from credible and reliable resources.

It’s very important to protect your mental health while online, as this can be a lonely place in an over-saturated, highly populated platform. If you’re aware of your triggers, and they are associated with online tools, it’s encouraged that you look for tangible support.

 

Digital mental health resources to make use of

To benefit from digital mental health resources, it’s important to select tools that will suit your needs, offer the right type of support, and connect you with credible and experienced individuals. Below are some to consider, to maintain your recovery journey and potentially help you in times of need.

 

Online communities

There are a number of online communities to consider, from Facebook groups to communities tailored to each mental health condition.

For example, Side by Side is a resourceful community, where individuals can feel at ease and supported while opening up about mental health struggles. If you’re struggling to be heard through the noise of online services such communities will offer a trusted platform for you to connect.

 

Online therapy

Online therapy is a great tool for times where face-to-face sessions are unsuitable or unavailable. E—therapy is a commonly utilised tool, where cognitive behavioural therapy and further talking therapies can be encountered with specialist counsellors.

Therapy for mental health struggles can be sourced through the NHS or through individual rehab clinics.

 

Blogs, vlogs and podcasts 

Many individuals are out there sharing their experiences to offer perspective and to inspire. It’s also a positive way to showcase people that they aren’t alone through mental health struggles. Blogs, vlogs and podcasts are available, offering just that, helping you resonate and understand.

Mind, have a useful blog full of supportive information for those who connect with online content.

 

Mental health apps 

Mental health apps are highly effective and can support you wherever you may be from your device. Once downloaded, you’ll have access to mindfulness apps, apps that promote routine and a schedule, apps which share motivational quotes, apps that stand as a platform for therapy, apps that help to promote a healthy lifestyle, and apps that highlight your coping strategies.

There are so many apps out there that can fit into your life to remind, inspire and maintain your mental health recovery. Headspace is a popular app, which helps to promote relaxation and mindfulness.

 

Online information  

If you’re searching for information, it’s vital that you make use of accredited websites. Digital mental health resources such as the NHS website and Mind will offer just that, providing reassurance that you’re protecting your mental health.

It’s easy to see how beneficial mental health resources can be while used correctly over a digital platform. You can personally benefit by finding those that support your journey.

If you do however require professional, handheld support and treatment, at Rehab Clinics Group, we’re here for you. Reach out with your mental health battles or for more information around supportive digital resources.

 

Sources 

https://sidebyside.mind.org.uk

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/self-help-therapies/

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/your-stories/

https://www.headspace.com

https://www.mind.org.uk