Digital innovations ‘can improve mental healthcare’

The government must do more to ensure that NHS mental healthcare takes full advantage of the potential benefits offered by digital technology, according to a new report.

Analysis carried out by the NHS Confederation's Mental Health Network has stated that there is "massive potential" in this area if national action is taken and discussions are held over the different ways in which new innovations can be used to patients' advantage.

It suggested that smartphone apps can be used to track mood changes and electronic systems can be utilised to monitor symptoms, while online platforms can help provide peer support for sufferers.

Co-author of the paper Rebecca Cotton, acting deputy director of the MHN, said: "E-mental health is about much more than money. People expect the NHS to keep up with the pace of modern life – and that means embracing technological change."

This comes at a time when the government is looking at ways of providing mental health patients with better access to psychological therapies as an alternative to medication.