Digital Apps as a 3rd Way of Therapy Treatment

In the ever-evolving quest for mental wellness, the convergence of technology and traditional therapeutic practices has birthed a transformative third way: digital therapeutic apps. This innovative approach to mental health care is reshaping how we understand, access, and engage with therapy, making it more accessible, personalized, and adaptable than ever before. Gone are the days when therapy was confined to the four walls of a therapist’s office; today, the path to mental well-being might just be a click away on your smartphone.

Mental health has risen to the top of our collective consciousness as society struggles with the complexities of modern life, including the relentless pace of work and the isolation wrought by global crises. In response, digital therapeutic apps emerge as a beacon of hope, offering new possibilities for those seeking support. These apps are not just supplementary tools but stand as a testament to the potential of technology to offer real, evidence-based solutions to those navigating mental health challenges.

Commitment to the apps

Adherence to different mental health apps is yet another challenge users face. Often, we hear about low adherence to the apps and users quitting using the apps after a while. The reasons for quitting can be different, sometimes due to a lack of motivation, sometimes complicated user interfaces, and sometimes unattractive app content and layouts. Studies show that understanding how to use a certain app is key because merely hearing that there are tools out there is not enough. Studies show that in the future, doctors and medical professionals will be trained enough that they know what to recommend, what type of app fits the person's diagnostic picture, and similar.  The charisme app, for example, is not a medical product; however, it targets individuals with subclinical social anxiety, meaning it aims at those who exhibit symptoms of social anxiety. These symptoms, though present, are not severe enough to warrant a diagnosis.

Digital Solutions Overcoming Global Mental Health Barriers

Unfortunately, access to therapies is simply a luxury in many countries around the world. In some countries where therapy is more accessible and affordable, clients face additional challenges, such as waiting lists. Another issue to consider is the high stigma associated with finding therapy. As a result, digital mental health apps are ideal for addressing these issues. Clients can gain access, which is where applications come in handy. They overcome the barriers of a shortage of therapists, unfavorable therapist hours, and stigma. Charisme app is on the way to bridging this gap between the high need for psychological counseling and help and the shortage of therapists and stigma. The app is currently available across the globe for all English-speaking speakers.  

Enhancing Therapy, Not Replacing It: The Role of Mental Health Apps

Many fear that mental health apps could replace traditional forms of therapy and that mental health professionals might lose their jobs. Although this fear is quite logical due to the significant rise of various mental health apps and AI advancements, studies show that apps will not necessarily replace traditional forms of therapy. Instead, they can serve as tools that help clients monitor their symptoms or, for example, engage in exercises in the meantime, which can improve their symptoms or help mental health professionals understand what is happening with the client in the meantime. Besides, apps reduce stigmatization, and the chatbots built within the app can provide 24-hour support to users.

Although we know that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and no perfect answer, mental health apps can significantly assist users with their mental health issues and struggles. Charisme aims to transform the current state of social health well-being and make it accessible to everyone, anywhere in the world. Our plan includes incorporating additional languages in the future.

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