“Redefining Resilience:Teens, Tech & Mental Wellness” - Stephanie Shelling

The Mental Health Revolution Will Be Digitized: A Rundown of talktechto.me Episode 98

Introduction

In episode 98 of talktechto.me, Cassie Betts explores how technology is transforming mental health support, making it more accessible, affordable, and personalized. Airing on May 25, 2024, from 12pm-1pm PT on KBLA Talk 1580, this episode wraps up Mental Health Awareness Month with a look at the intersection of tech and mental wellness.

Segment 1: The Tea in Tech

Cassie starts with the latest in tech news:

Kendrick Lamar's 'Alright' Reigns Supreme

Spotify named Kendrick Lamar's 2015 hit "Alright" as the greatest hip-hop song of the streaming era. The anthem has over 686 million Spotify streams and 173 million YouTube views, earning Kendrick two Grammy wins.

Soulja Boy’s Ambition to Buy TikTok

Soulja Boy expressed interest in purchasing TikTok following a bill requiring ByteDance to sell its U.S. interests. Known for his digital ventures, his potential acquisition could shift social media ownership.

Swiping While Spoken For: The Reality of Dating Apps

A study reveals that 65.3% of Tinder users are already in relationships, raising questions about the future of dating apps and their impact on real-world relationships.

Dell’s Hybrid Employee Monitoring System

Dell introduced a color-coded flagging system to monitor hybrid employees' office visits, affecting performance reviews and promotions. This system reflects changing workplace dynamics.

Segment 2: The Mental Health Revolution

Cassie discusses mental health challenges faced by tech employees, such as burnout, anxiety, and depression, and the role of technology in addressing these issues.

AI Therapists: The Future of Mental Health Support

AI therapists provide automated conversations and therapeutic exercises to help users manage mild mental health issues. However, they are not substitutes for professional human therapists.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a talk therapy that helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors. It is effective for treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.

Pros and Cons of AI Therapists

Pros of AI therapists include their availability 24/7, non-judgmental nature, and lack of wait times. However, they lack empathy, can provide false information, and pose privacy concerns.

Popular AI Chatbots and Platforms

Earkick is a free AI chatbot for mental health support. Woebot is an AI digital companion app based on CBT principles and is HIPAA compliant. Youper offers personalized CBT and mindfulness conversations. DailyOm provides self-paced personal development courses. iPrevail offers online mental health assessments and peer support for LA County residents. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 support for people experiencing mental health crises.

Segment 3: Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

Cassie discusses the importance of addressing mental health challenges in the tech industry and the role of digital tools in providing support. She explores the concepts of “sadfishing” and the loneliness epidemic, emphasizing the need for social interaction and healthy relationships.

Conclusion

Cassie reviews the tools and methods covered, providing final thoughts and encouraging listeners to connect online. She highlights the transformative potential of digital mental health tools and the ongoing evolution of mental health support.

For more insights and updates, follow Cassie Betts on Instagram @instabetts and @talktechto.me, and visit Made In South LA at misla.org. Tune in to talktechto.me on KBLA Talk 1580 for more episodes exploring the latest in tech.