Can technology help transform mental health care?

As we celebrate Mental Health Month in May, let’s look at some exciting developments that are promoting mental wellness in our local communities. At Smoky Mountain MCO, we’re working with healthcare providers throughout the region to learn how technology can improve the way care is delivered and how it can help build healthier communities.

Most people have seen touch-screen kiosks – picture an ATM. Smoky is placing specialized MindKare Kiosks at public locations recommended by our community partners. MindKare Kiosks feature a touch-screen that anyone can use to complete a quick, anonymous screening for treatable conditions like depression and anxiety, then learn more about the condition and local treatment options.

These kiosks have the potential to help people recognize any unwanted symptoms as early as possible and find treatment that works for them. Mental health experts sometimes describe mental illness as progressing though four stages, from mild to critical. We believe technology such as this will help people find stability before the illness turns critical, or “B4Stage4.” One day, screening for mental health conditions could be as commonplace as a blood pressure screening.

Healthcare technology expo in May

In May, providers, advocates and individuals from throughout the Southeast are expected to attend the region’s first-ever expo for behavioral healthcare and intellectual/ developmental disability (I/DD) needs. Smoky is the presenting sponsor of Carolina HealthTEC Live, scheduled for May 27 at Asheville’s Crowne Plaza Resort.

The expo will feature ways technology can improve healthcare delivery and the lives of individuals. For example, technology can help someone who is unable to type communicate with a computer using other parts of the body, such as the eyes. Three internationally known leaders in healthcare will speak on pressing issues in mental health, substance use disorder and I/DD prevention and care.

Dr. Gabor Maté has written bestselling books, including the award-winning In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction. His works have been published internationally in 20 languages. Speaker Luis Perez is a champion of inclusive learning and helps educators integrate technology to empower all learners. Also speaking is Lynne Seagle, executive director of Hope House Foundation and advocate for individuals with disabilities.

Already, technology makes long-distance access and support easier. By using an approach that puts the person at the center of the process and making best use of technology, who what we can achieve? Lucky for us, we can make mental wellness and recovery part of our daily lives, not just this May, but every day.

Help and support are available locally

Smoky manages public funds for services for mental illness, substance use disorder and intellectual/ developmental disabilities in 23 North Carolina counties, including Polk. Call 24/7 at 1-800-849-6127 for free information on local treatment services in and around Polk County or for help in a behavioral health crisis.

Dr. Craig Martin, this week’s author for our Tryon Daily Bulletin Mental Health Awareness Series, lives in Waynesville, N.C., and is Chief Medical Officer at Smoky Mountain MCO. He is board-certified in psychiatry and addiction medicine and works to improve the heath of our community through prevention and early intervention.