No ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to mental health, says expert

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health, the associate director of external relations at charity Mind has said, as a growing number of women are turning to digital support tools.

In an interview with Femtech World during the Women’s Health Innovation Summit UK, Vicki Nash said more and more mental health and wellbeing apps are popping up, as more awareness are prompting people to seek help.

“We’ve seen interesting developments in AI and virtual reality and how those might be able to help with particular conditions or in particular situations,” Nash said.

“But while online solutions work for some, they definitely don’t work for others.

“Quite often what we’re finding is particularly because of the benefits and cost savings, more people are being directed to online services.

“However, I think we need to keep our finger on the pulse and look at what the opportunities are while making sure people get the support they need. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach.”

While data shows the pandemic has marked a rise in the use of digital mental health tools and technologies, Nash said it is important that people have choice and availability.

“Women have told us that actually they want to have blended offers so they can pick and choose and combine their support services as best as possible.

“They do want some online support, but they also want that face-to-face contact. It’s about being able to dip in and out of services.”

The associate director recognised the “real progress” around people understanding mental health, but she said there is still a lot of work to do.

“Women are definitely feeling that they are able to talk more openly about their mental health, but we know that that’s not the case for everyone,” she said.

“We have a better understanding of mental health problems like anxiety and depression, but we are certainly not talking enough about more stigmatised conditions like schizophrenia or psychosis.

“We’ve still got a long way to go to make sure that everyone gets the support and respect they deserve.”