It has been reported that one in four people across the world will experience a mental or neurological disorder in their lifetime.
While meditation and positive self-talk can help people cope with the likes of anxiety and depression, there are other tactics that could improve management of a disorder that’s taking control of their lives.
Here are the five medical breakthroughs that could transform mental health.
1. Big Data
Big data is improving organizations of all sizes, especially healthcare. While scientists will undoubtedly have an in-depth knowledge of a field, they can also leverage the power of data analysis of large samples, which can provide medical insight that can be validated. It can ultimately enable scientists to feel confident of a theory’s outcome when embarking on a mental health study.
2. CBD
Numerous clinical trials have discovered that CBD can effectively reduce anxiety. In fact, a study published in The Permanente Journal found that 79% of its participants reported decreased anxiety levels. It’s for this reason why the CBD industry is projected to reach $22 million by 2022 and many are now sourcing CBD extract from CopeCBD, which is the largest CBD industrial hemp farm in Colorado, USA. It could serve as a holistic approach to managing anxiety, which is due to the way the hemp plant naturally interacts with the body.
3. Brain Imaging
Brain imaging is enabling health care professionals to identify how different parts of the human brain are communicating, which can change the way they understand mental illness. Consequently, a medical professional will be able to identify if a medical treatment is reversing a problem. The technology is likely to be more effective for people who are living with one chronic mental illness compared to tougher clinical cases.
4. Digital Technology
Many people living with a mental health disorder can receive immediate support from a doctor or therapist. Thanks to digital technology, more healthcare professionals can remotely speak to a patient to discuss their problems or concerns, and they can provide coping techniques and develop tailored treatment plans via a device.
For example, a doctor could hold video appointments or provide online questionnaires to learn about their patients’ symptoms. It is a service that is growing in popularity with healthcare professionals in various settings.
5. Virtual Reality
Virtual reality isn’t just for gaming, as the new technology is playing an important role in improving mental health. For example, patients struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can use the VR headsets to help desensitize them from their trauma.
For instance, the technology can recreate a personal trigger and they can develop various coping techniques in a safe, comfortable environment, such as in their therapist’s office or own home. It is also being used to help combat depression and anxiety.
Mental health disorders sadly affect millions of people across the globe, but the above breakthroughs could help them to take back control of their life.
— Featured photo by Flick user sergio santos, nursingschoolsnearme.com, Creative Commons