MHM Magazine

14 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2025 | Issue 1 MHM Mental health care is at the doorstep of a quiet revolution. Because of stigma, cost, and accessibility, many people don’t seek the help they need. Technology though, is tearing these walls down. From applications that deliver guided mindfulness exercises to telehealth services that connect patients and therapists over distance, the digital realm is altering how mental health care is delivered. Meet James, a 34-year-old architect in Johannesburg. He has dealt with depression for years while balancing a demanding job. Traditional talk therapy felt out of reach, burdened by time constraints and stigma. On this particular evening, James had downloaded a mental health app his coworker had suggested. After some structured cognitive- behavioural therapy (CBT) exercises and mood tracking, James began to gain insight into his condition. Eventually, he switched to online therapy. These days, James credits technology as the catalyst for his recovery. James’s story illustrates how technology is changing the landscape of mental health care. Research backs this up—a 2020 JMIR Mental Health study found that digital tools reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by 45–50%. To that end, this article looks at apps, online therapy, and telehealth, and offers some perspective on how to balance the good of these innovations with the power and irreplaceability living, breathing humans can bring to a technology event. How Technology Is Transforming Mental Health Care 1. Mental Health Apps for Daily By Melanie du Preez Clinical Psychologist in Klerksdorp, North West melanie.dupreez72@gmail.com HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY FOR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT LEVERAGING APPS, ONLINE THERAPY, AND TELEHEALTH TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE. MHM | 2025 | Volume 12 | Issue 1 | Harne ing Technology for Mental Health Support H