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Technology behind increasing need for mental health services

Author
Alex Mason,
Publish Date
Sat, 8 Oct 2016, 7:15AM
File photo (Getty Images)
File photo (Getty Images)

Technology behind increasing need for mental health services

Author
Alex Mason,
Publish Date
Sat, 8 Oct 2016, 7:15AM

A relentless stream of negativity from ever-evolving technology is driving young people to seek more support for mental health issues.

Demand on youth and adult services has grown 70 percent over the past 10 years, Mental Health Foundation CEO Shaun Robinson says.

Robinson believes that the rising figure is because people now feel more comfortable seeking help, but technologies changing the way people interact is also a factor.

"We have access to a constant bombardment of information about the world, much of it negative. Often it's very different to tell what's true."

Robinson said technology also presents opportunities for cyber bullying.

"Put all of those factors together and it's not surprising that demand has gone up."

Robinson noted other pressures in society that are also driving a demand for mental health services, such as poverty and homelessness, as well as the age-old pressures of growing up and finding your place in the world.

'Connecting with Nature' is the theme of this year's Mental Health Awareness Week, which kicks off today.

Robinson says connecting with nature is proven to lift your mood, and make you more healthy and resilient.

"Mental wellbeing, feeling good and being able to function well is something we can work on .Just like we can work on our new physical fitness."

He said if communities recognise this, they will cope much better in the face of changing times and modern pressures.

 

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