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We could all use a little help at the beginning of the year. The holidays put a strain on us mentally, and we are doing our best to meet our New Year’s goals and resolutions.
It may seem like online mental health platforms have only recently risen in popularity, considering advertisements have become prevalent in recent years. But people in the field have toyed around with the idea for decades. The first online mental health service was created at Cornell University by faculty there in 1986 at the students’ request. The service was called “Ask Uncle Ezra,” and students could get help with issues they have involving mental health.
But the internet’s grown a lot since then. Nowadays, you can find a mental health expert specializing in an array of issues at an affordable cost online. Find out why many people are switching over from traditional mental health services to going strictly virtual for their mental health solutions.
The Benefits of Switching To Online Platforms
There are many benefits to switching from traditional to virtual mental health platforms. One of the plus sides is that they aren’t as expensive as in-person appointments. Sites like YANA are great for those that are on the go but don’t have the time to make regular appointments with a therapist in their office. YANA is subscription-based and offers plans as low as 12 dollars a week. All you have to do is sign up and set up an appointment with a real doctor who will provide you with a consultation detailing your plan’s steps. Another bonus in going with YANA is that you can get medication without paying a premium or going through an insurance company.
The Downside
One downside to switching to online mental-health based websites is the lack of a physical or formal diagnosis you’d get from a traditional doctor. However, the fact that online marketplaces exist for those that desperately need mental healthcare is a drastic improvement from all the stigma placed on brain health issues. Studies have shown that men are less likely to get mental healthcare but tend to experience more severe symptoms from untreated mental illnesses than women. That alone is a reason why the stigma surrounding mental illness should completely be stomped out.
Psychologists have benefited from the rise of online therapy as well. Considering the pandemic placed many social distancing restrictions, many have decided to work with their patients on a virtual platform. While the pandemic wreaked havoc on the world, many people have suffered emotional distress as a result. According to The American Psychological Association, therapists who go through virtual companies like YANA can earn a supplemental income connecting with patients, but they have to stick to it.
While online therapy is a relatively new concept, it has gotten people that wouldn’t otherwise seek out in-person therapy interested in getting real help. Having the option to get help online removes that awkward initial meeting and allows patients to receive treatment in a comfortable environment. Advocates for online therapy also say that those who steer away from the traditional way could eventually show interest in having in-person sessions if they latch on to breakthroughs.
Admitting that you need help is never easy, but it is a huge step in moving forward. If you are reading this wondering if online therapy is right for you, you are not alone. One in five Americans has a mental illness, and many do not seek out the treatment they desperately need. Before connecting with a therapist, understand that you may need to go through a couple of professionals before landing on the person right for you.
If you are in a crisis right now, understand that there is immediate and free help available. You can call the National Suicide Hotline and connect with a crisis counselor based out of your area.
