As the United States grapples with a mental health crisis, technology is emerging as a vital tool for psychiatrists, enabling them to concentrate on their specialty. Dr. Chris Mosunic, chief clinical officer at Calm, emphasizes the potential of digital health solutions to alleviate some burdens faced by mental health professionals.
Dr. Mosunic notes that many mental health resources provided by insurers and employers often go unused, leading to a gap between available support and individuals in need. He argues that well-designed digital tools can transform these resources from intimidating options into approachable solutions. Patients often feel overwhelmed by the number of available options, which can result in disengagement from the very resources that could help them.
In the U.S., approximately 122 million people live in areas lacking sufficient mental health professionals, and 46% of therapists acknowledge that they cannot meet the demand for care. This shortage highlights the need for scalable technology solutions that can provide immediate, evidence-based resources without the barriers associated with traditional care, such as long wait times and transportation issues. Digital tools can perform tasks that do not require a specialist, such as symptom collection and basic guidance, allowing psychiatrists to focus on more complex cases.
Calm’s app has gained significant traction, with over 175 million downloads and support for more than 3,500 organizations across 190 countries. The company also offers Calm Health, a mental health app aimed at payers, providers, and employers that offers personalized support recommendations through in-app screenings. This feature utilizes the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 questionnaires to tailor recommendations to individual needs, ranging from self-guided programs to therapy options.
Dr. Mosunic points out that payers are increasingly aware of the connection between mental and physical health. Mental health conditions often accompany chronic health issues, leading to elevated care costs. For instance, individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or cancer frequently experience mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety. By integrating evidence-based digital mental health tools into care plans, payers can improve access to necessary support while reducing overall healthcare costs.
Digital mental health tools can particularly benefit low-income and rural populations, addressing barriers like provider shortages and travel constraints. These platforms offer secure, confidential care options that can significantly improve access. Dr. Mosunic emphasizes the importance of considering diverse factors, such as language and disability needs, to ensure equitable care delivery.
While digital solutions are making strides in accessibility, disparities still exist. Older adults, in particular, may struggle more with adopting these technologies compared to younger populations. As digital mental health tools become more widespread, it is crucial to ensure that they are inclusive of all age groups, especially the aging population.
In summary, as the mental health crisis continues, leveraging technology can help bridge the gap in care accessibility, allowing psychiatrists to focus on providing specialized treatment while improving engagement with patients. Dr. Mosunic’s insights into the role of digital tools illustrate the potential for technology to reshape the landscape of mental healthcare in the U.S.
