Petaling Jaya: Dr. Fauzia Mohd Saad, associate professor of psychology and counseling at Pendidikan University Sultan Idris, said the use of technology will soon help in diagnosing mental health.
He added that innovations such as predictive analytics powered by artificial intelligence will enable rapid intervention and revolutionize the delivery of mental health care.
“Precision medicine is beginning to live up to its promise as advances in technology allow us to customize individual treatment plans.
“This means that treatments are closely matched to each patient's genetic profile and requirements.”
Beyond these innovations, Fauzia said digital mental health tools can enable access to care and bridge the gap between accessibility and affordability.
He also said the tool will help reduce stigma around mental health, expand access to treatment for underserved populations, and promote a holistic approach to mental health. Ta.
She said that in the modern mental health landscape, advanced technological tools such as teletherapy apps and online counseling platforms are transforming care delivery.
“Teletherapy apps enable remote counseling sessions across distance barriers, while online platforms provide a structured counseling environment.
“Mental health tracking apps can help individuals monitor their health status, while real-time monitoring can help clinicians adapt treatments and enhance personalized mental health care.”
Fauzia said these treatment tools will be integrated into clinical settings, virtually replicating traditional treatments and supporting diagnosis through digital assessment.
He added that digital interventions in mental health are meticulously tailored to address the multifaceted and individualized nature of such conditions.
“Machine learning algorithms analyze mental health conditions through data, identifying trends and details unique to each person’s mental health profile.
“This personalized approach allows users to receive targeted interventions that resonate with their specific needs, facilitating a more effective treatment experience.”
However, Fauzia said barriers to equitable access to mental health technology include digital literacy disparities, socio-economic differences and internet limitations.
To combat these, she said efforts are needed to focus on education, subsidize technology costs and strengthen internet infrastructure.
Clinical psychologist Dr Joel Roe said digital interventions, including mobile apps and online platforms, had revolutionized the landscape of mental health services.
“They provide unparalleled convenience, reduce traditional barriers, and allow more people to access critical mental health resources.
“However, legal issues such as user age verification still remain, as therapy services typically require parental consent for users under 18.”
Despite such hurdles, Lo said digital platforms are bridging geographic gaps and benefiting people in remote areas who previously didn't have access to therapists.
He also said that digital interventions have proven beneficial in the delivery of mental health care, adding that integrating technology in treatment primarily improves accessibility and streamlines logistical operations.
“While face-to-face interactions foster deep connections, the convenience and reach afforded by technology are undeniable advantages in modern therapeutic practice.”
He said data protection and confidentiality are the most important factors to consider when incorporating technology into mental health treatment.
Many healthcare providers have adopted benchmarks such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 to ensure the highest level of data protection.
“As technology evolves, maintaining this trust becomes even more important and requires continued vigilance and protection to protect information on digital platforms.”
Lowe said the new research highlights the effectiveness of technology-based mental health interventions and shows that therapists and patients differ in their preferences for digital therapy versus traditional methods due to the personal nature of therapy. I added meaning.
“Recognizing this diversity emphasizes that despite technological advances, mental health care is not 'one size fits all.'”
