Behavioral interventions technologies, also known as B.I.T.s, are phone and web-based applications that are able to treat anxiety and depression, according to a sizable amount of clinical research. Such apps have been integrated into the health care systems of Britain, Australia, and the Netherlands. The convenience and availability of B.I.T.s allows for individuals to receive treatment without having to arrange an appointment with a therapist.
Others argue that therapeutic progress is determined by the quality of a relationship with a therapist. Without an intimate relationship with someone, such as a knowledgeable and personal therapist, one may never be able to relieve themselves from the mental disorder they are suffering from. Mental health apps may lead individuals to believe they are receiving proper treatment, when in reality, they are in need of a deep connection with another human being. Downloading such applications may just be a defense mechanism to evade help from therapists, continuing to harm one's mental state by preventing them from receiving the comfort that they truly need from another person more than anything else.
Personally, I would have to agree that the use of applications "should be supplemental, rather than a primary therapeutic avenue", as stated by Matthew Hertenstein. During the time that a therapist is unavailable, an app could be the necessary resort in order to temporarily continue with the therapeutic process. However, a deep connection with a therapist is vital to one's treatment, and an individual should not depend on an application over a personal therapist. An application might contain the potential to enhance the recovery of an individual's mental illness when combined with the treatment of a therapist.
Any thoughts on how the therapeutic process should be approached? Do you believe that applications are ready to be relied on, or should further testing be completed first? Do you think we will ever reach a time where human interaction is no longer necessary to treat certain mental illnesses?
I believe that most Americans need therapy but do not go to therapy because of negative stigma around it. Many people fear approaching a therapist because they believe they will appear weak or mentally ill. Applications may become useful in these instances. These apps could provide therapy for those who cannot afford it or those who are afraid of trying it. However, I doubt the technology is advanced enough to be a total replacement for therapy. I doubt it is even advanced enough to be competent at what it is supposed to do. These applications should be used only if the person already goes to see a therapist. I believe human interaction is an integral part of therapy. I do not think it can be replaced or replicated through an application. These applications are watered down versions of therapy that should never, and probably will never, be used as a genuine alternative to a therapist.
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