Greater investment and better access to mental health support is the focus for this year’s World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2020.
It’s a fitting theme considering the world, after nearly a year, is still in the grip of the devastating coronavirus pandemic that has taken its toll on many things including people’s mental health.
Coronavirus and our mental health
Figures published by the Office for National Statistics suggest that twice as many adults in Britain are reporting symptoms of depression now compared with this time last year1. And a survey carried out by Mind, during lockdown, found more than two thirds of people who already had mental health problems said their condition had worsened during the pandemic2.
It’s no surprise that restrictions on seeing people, being able to go outside and worries about the health of family and friends are all contributors to declining mental health3.
Traditional methods limit access
Consequently, there is an increasing need for mental health support systems to help people cope.
With ongoing restrictions to traditional face-to-face consultations, however, as well as growing pressure on healthcare services, there is limited access to support3. The availability of online therapy sessions has therefore proven to be a valuable lifeline for those needing support4.
Technology opens the door
Now more than ever there is a need to increase access to mental health therapies and consider how technology can enhance their accessibility and effectiveness. The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way many industries work, including the mental health space, with technology creating opportunities for therapists to treat clients remotely.
This has many advantages; it saves on time and travel for the client, allows for more flexibility in appointment times, offers privacy, and means the client can talk in the comfort of their own home or anywhere they choose.
During 2020, demand for mental health support via our member benefits app, HealthWise, has almost quadrupled when compared to the same period in 2019. Reasons for members using the service range from anger management and relationship problems to anxiety and depression.
As a fully digital service, HealthWise has allowed us to provide remote support and guidance to our members and their immediate families during this difficult year.
Why wait when you need help?
Mental health conditions can affect anyone. Having access to timely and relevant support can be invaluable and help prevent conditions worsening.
To find out more about how HealthWise can help support your clients, book a short webinar with one of our Adviser Account Managers.
- https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/articles/coronavirusanddepressioninadultsgreatbritain/june2020
- https://www.mind.org.uk/news-campaigns/news/uk-government-must-urgently-plan-for-recovery-from-coronavirus-mental-health-crisis-says-mind/
- https://www.mind.org.uk/media-a/5929/the-mental-health-emergency_a4_final.pdf
- https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-anxiety-leading-people-to-online-therapy-2020-3?r=US&IR=T