How AI will change the way we access mental health care
Technology
All over the world, mental ill health is a growing problem. In many areas within the US, healthcare providers are struggling to meet growing patient demands. While we are bombarded with frightening news headlines, have faced a global pandemic, and have been left feeling more isolated than ever before due to growing polarization and social media, is it any wonder we need help? Furthermore, how will our healthcare providers meet this tidal wave of needs?
AI (Artificial Intelligence) could provide the answer.
Spotting warning signs
Spotting early warning signs of mental health issues can have a huge impact on the patient’s healthcare journey. Early interventions can save lives. AI can use algorithms to detect early warning signs of psychosis. It could also look out for warning signs like not leaving your house often and not chatting with friends, which could signal the beginning of a depressive episode. AI can support healthcare providers by notifying them when a patient needs a check-in or some extra care before the situation becomes too extreme.
Being available 24/7
Telehealth platforms have become much more common since the Covid-19 global pandemic. Healthcare providers needed to adapt quickly to ensure they could see as many patients as possible online. So in many ways, telehealth has become the new normal. Healthcare providers can now reach patients online if someone has a good internet connection and is tech-savvy enough to log into a system. This no-contact model of care has continued to be popular in the mental health sphere, with mental health telehealth platforms providing patients with affordable treatment plans and access to a professional health care provider 24/7, 7 days a week. Patients will be matched with a licensed therapist with whom they can text, video call, and voice chat. This type of care is also essential for people who live in rural areas or don’t easily have access to transportation.
Reducing human error
Human error is evident in any area of health care. It’s simply impossible for humans to catch every warning sign, especially within mental health. Mental health issues affect everyone differently; some high-functioning patients may exhibit fewer telltale signs than others. With the speed health care providers must work, as they rush from meeting to meeting, it’s only natural certain things go unnoticed. That’s where AI comes in. Algorithms are able to detect signs of conditions like PTSD and depression. They analyze speech patterns and facial expressions. This type of technology could be extremely useful for health care providers in every sphere. It won’t replace traditional human-to-human methods, but it can be a useful backup and prevent misdiagnosis.
In conclusion, AI won’t replace human therapists and mental health providers, but it can go a long way in supporting them. Mental health is a huge problem in our society, so anything that can help people access the help they need, no matter their circumstances. And lastly receive a correct diagnosis is going to revolutionize the mental health care system.
How AI will change the way we access mental health care
