In 2012, technology reigns. While smart phones, tablets and laptops keep us informed and media savvy, these new technologies can also help assess our mental health. New this fall are two innovative features: Video Doctor and Learning and Resources.
Video Doctor Program
It can be difficult to gather the courage to make an appointment and seek help. With the launch of Video Doctor, CommunityResponse has a new tool to help bridge the gap between mental health screening and treatment. Video Doctor is now embedded into the online screening tools for depression and alcohol.
Video Doctor is an online tool that simulates a conversation with a doctor and guides a person through a series of questions about his/her emotional well-being and readiness to seek help. The anonymous, web-based program provides the opportunity to interact with a pre-taped video doctor about issues related to depression and alcohol misuse. The program also provides self-care tips and recommendations on how and where to access local resources.
“By increasing awareness and understanding about depression and alcohol, it is our hope that Video Doctor reduces stigma and increases motivation to develop help-seeking behaviors," says Douglas G. Jacobs, MD, associate clinical professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and president of Screening for Mental Health. “The interactive nature of Video Doctor and the non-judgmental language is extremely helpful. It’s both non-threatening and completely anonymous, enabling individuals to get a better understanding of mental health services available.”
Video Doctor launches after a person completes an online screening and scores positive for having symptoms of depression or alcohol abuse. The program begins with a brief introduction in which the Video Doctor—who is portrayed by an actor—explains the signs and symptoms of depression or alcohol misuse. The doctor then asks the viewer a series of questions about their symptoms and readiness to change. Using the keyboard, the viewer types in their responses and then the video doctor discusses treatment options and self-care tips.
Learning and Resources Section
For community members interested in receiving more information on mental health, the new CommunityResponse Learning and Resource page is an excellent resource. Now available as part of the online screening program community members can access mental health related articles, videos and health care resources online.
To view a demonstration of Video Doctor, please click here. See below for a screen shot of the Learning and Resources section.