We are living in a world that is putting increasing pressure on all of us, with increased life pressures, global uncertainty, and a rapidly and almost out-of-control digital world driven by insatiable consumption of content and of course AI. So how do we combat the stress that arises from this new digital world, or, how do we use creative technology to reduce our anxieties and increase our creativity to improve our mental health?
The convergence of creativity, technology, and mental health, often referred to as “digital therapy,” is ushering in a new era of our overall well-being, that merges our lifestyles and workflows. The power of creative technology encompasses various innovative tools and platforms, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), smartphone apps, and interactive media. The health sector is harnessing these technologies by addressing mental health challenges in novel and effective ways, but from our own personal levels, we can greatly increase our own wellbeing by using tech, and modern software to express our creativity. We all know the feeling of personal achievement and pride in presenting our creativity to others, but it is also the journey through our own creativity that, without realizing it, feeds our subconscious with a sense of well-being and keeps us happy. We must also be mindful that the pressures and demands of our industry can also have the opposite effect, caused by things like client demands, and expectations of what we as creatives will deliver to them.
Here at Domeble we often discuss how creative tech is reshaping the landscape of mental wellness, and how we can escape the daily pressures of life, so we discuss below some of the tech and processes that can cleanse the mind of those unwanted anxieties.
Immersive Therapies with VR and AR:
Virtual reality and augmented reality are being leveraged to create immersive environments for therapy. There are many immersive applications and soundscapes that can help us find solace in calming digital landscapes, practice mindfulness, or confront our fears in a controlled setting. These technologies are proving really effective in treating conditions like anxiety, and PTSD, and can often cure or overcome our phobias.
Gamified Mental Health Apps:
Creative tech has given birth to a multitude of mental health apps designed to make therapy engaging and accessible. Gamification techniques encourage users to participate actively in their treatment, providing a sense of achievement and progress, and at a very basic level, the act of gaming and the escape it provides as a distraction subconsciously takes our mindset to a different place.
Art and Music Therapy Apps:
Creative technology is facilitating art and music therapy in digital forms. We’ve had lots of fun at immersive experiential events, and my own personal escape is walking around an art gallery in a virtual space, there are also apps that allow individuals to express themselves through art and music which becomes an outlet for emotional release and personal growth.
Online Support Communities:
“It’s good to talk”, we’ve all heard this tagline, and indeed the digital realm has fostered the growth of online mental health support communities. In these spaces, people can connect with others who share their struggles and gain a sense of belonging and understanding, and these communities often have virtual meet-ups in a virtual safe environment that provides togetherness without the pressure of real-world situations.
A New Dawn for Mental Wellness.
Digital therapy doesn’t seek to replace traditional therapy methods, but rather to complement them and reach individuals who might not have sought help otherwise. It bridges gaps in access and provides an array of tools for those navigating the often complex landscape of mental health. In a world where mental health challenges affect millions, the adoption of creative technologies as a way of mental well-being is a viable and proven route, as it not only breaks down barriers to care but also makes well-being an engaging and immersive experience.
We at Domeble want to encourage creative expressiveness and of course, through creative engagement help you to be the best and happiest version of yourself, and we are always here to support your needs. In a world where technology and well-being intertwine, we want to be at the forefront to demonstrate how innovation can lead to a brighter, more interconnected future for all, and remember – “it is good to talk”, so hit us up any time we can help by collaborating on a personal project to escape this crazy mad world we live in.