Mental healthcare and digitalisation: human connection is vital

The digitalisation of mental healthcare remains a strategic priority and can bring nursing benefits, but it should enhance, not replace human connection

The NHS's rapid adoption of technological solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of digital healthcare.

However, high-profile ransomware attacks on healthcare systems – often due to antiquated software – and the global technology outage in July, underscore the need for robust cybersecurity measures and comprehensive disaster recovery plans.

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Despite ongoing debates, the digitalisation of mental healthcare remains a strategic priority. The focus is shifting towards the impact of technology on clinical delivery, balancing concerns about heavy social media use against opportunities for early intervention through data analysis as outlined in the Nature article, Scrutinizing the effects of digital technology on mental health.

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The proliferation of mental health apps presents opportunities and challenges. While these tools can improve accessibility and reduce stigma, questions persist about their effects on therapeutic alliances and engagement. Moreover, the involvement of profit-driven organisations in app development raises concerns about prioritising financial gain over patient care as touched on in the World Psychiatry article Psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in the 21st century: paradigm shifts versus incremental integration.

Striking the right balance between digital and in-person care

As mental health trusts navigate this evolving landscape, several priorities emerge. As NHS England states there is a need to balance digital and in-person care, explore AI and machine learning for predictive analytics, and invest in workforce digital literacy. Crucially, the evolution of digital mental health solutions must remain patient-centred and clinician-driven.

Amid these challenges, there’s growing recognition that combining the expertise of nurses with AI capabilities for accurate diagnosis may offer innovative solutions to the increasing demand and workforce crisis in mental healthcare. This synergy could potentially address issues of recruitment and retention by optimising the roles of healthcare professionals and enhancing the efficiency of care delivery.

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Ultimately in this journey of digitalisation, technology should enhance, not replace, human connection in mental healthcare. By thoughtfully embracing digital innovation while prioritising patients’ needs and clinical expertise, NHS trusts can improve accessibility, efficiency, and outcomes in mental health services, ensuring they remain current and able to meet increasing pressures for safe, efficient, quality care.

Further information

• Nature (2020) Scrutinizing the effects of digital technology on mental health
• NHS England: Profession and Service Specific Digital Capabilities Frameworks
• World Psychiatry (2022) Psychiatric diagnosis and treatment in the 21st century: paradigm shifts versus incremental integration

Stuart Maddock, consultant nurse, West Norfolk Adult Community Mental Health Team, King's Lynn, Norfolk