Using technology to support your mental health

Wednesday, 20 October 2021

We hear a lot about the downside of technology, and how we should try to spend less time on it. But the pros of technology have also become obvious.

Our need for connection and fun is still clear. Though at present, our usual routines have been disrupted and everything is a little bit out of sorts.

But we have to adapt to the way the world is now and reach out in ways that we can. We need to restructure how we do the things that help our mental health, and technology can help.

Jigsaw clinicians Vicky, Sarah, Valerija and Aoife discuss how they use technology to support their mental health during this time.

Ways to use technology

Connect

Feelings of loneliness and isolation may be new for us and we may be struggling with how to manage currently. It’s not easy, however, there are some things that we can do to support our need for connection.

Video chat is a great way to feel close to our families, partners and friends. People are social creatures, so try scheduling at least one chat every day as part of your self-care routine. Video chats can be on top of the real world chats you have.

There are many apps out there that make it possible to play online games and quizzes through video chats too. These may add some variety to conversations.

Stay active

Exercise can support us in managing our mental health.

A good option is to do a live or pre-recorded class in whatever takes your fancy. Doing this, there is real engagement with another person, and the feeling of being part of a community completing the same class. Instagram and Youtube provide lots of options.

Or you could schedule a phone call with a friend, and go for a walk at the same time. This kills two birds with one stone!

Get involved

There are plenty of online campaigns to take part in, such as cooking and music challenges. Getting involved in a book-club could also be a good idea at the moment. This provides some motivation to read, which can be hard at times!

See if you can take up a Tik Tok challenge! All of this can help us feel part of a wider community and that we are all in this together.

Keep learning

Technology has given us several options to occupy ourselves by engaging in something we enjoy. For example online courses, YouTube tutorials, apps. This could be a good time to explore some interests we used to have or want to evolve.

Take notice

There are lots of things outside our control. But there are also things we do have influence over. Responding to your emotions, and being aware of what you need is important.

Mindfulness and meditation apps can help when trying to check in with how we are doing. See the Jigsaw Insta account for live sessions with Jigsaw clinicians.

There are many other ways that technology can support us at the moment. Many people are reaching out, supporting each other and finding creative ways to get through this, whatever way works for them.