The Artefacts of Digital Mental Health

The Artefacts of Digital Mental Health explores smartphone apps, wearables, and ingestible sensors as key drivers of research, development, and investment in mental health and digitalization. It examines digital mental health through three artefacts: ubiquity, everydayness, popularity, innovation, and hype, and their emergent qualities. The book integrates theoretical perspectives from technology, mental health, and wellbeing, drawing from Science and Technology Studies, sociological studies, and sociomaterialism. It highlights the transformative potential of biodigital artefacts in digital mental health.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

The Artefacts of Digital Mental Health delves into the realm of smartphone apps, wearable devices, and ingestible sensors, which are at the forefront of research, development, and investment in mental health and digitalization. This comprehensive book aims to explore digital mental health through three artefacts that are characterized by their widespread presence, everydayness, popularity, innovation, and hype, as well as their emergent qualities. By engaging with theoretical frameworks informed by Science and Technology Studies, sociological studies of health and mental health, and sociomaterialism, the book seeks to unravel the complexities of technology, mental health, and well-being in the digital age.

The Artefacts of Digital Mental Health brings together diverse theories of mental health, subjectivity, the body, care, and digitalization, showcasing biodigital artefacts as exemplars of transformations in digital mental health. These artefacts encompass a wide range of technologies, from wearable devices that monitor physical activity and heart rate to smartphone apps that provide cognitive behavioral therapy and meditation. Ingestible sensors, such as smart pills, can also track physiological data and provide personalized medication recommendations.

Through the examination of these artefacts, the book explores the ways in which digital technologies are shaping our understanding and treatment of mental health. It examines the potential benefits and risks associated with these technologies, as well as the ethical considerations that arise when using them for mental health purposes. The book also sheds light on the ways in which digital mental health interventions can be tailored to individual needs, leveraging data analytics and machine learning to provide personalized support and treatment.

Furthermore, The Artefacts of Digital Mental Health examines the role of these artefacts in promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma. It highlights the importance of digital literacy and education in empowering individuals to navigate the digital landscape and make informed decisions about their mental health. The book also explores the potential for these artefacts to be used in conjunction with traditional mental health treatments, such as therapy and medication, to enhance their effectiveness and reach.

In conclusion, The Artefacts of Digital Mental Health is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of digital mental health. By examining the ubiquity, everydayness, popularity, innovation, and hype of smartphone apps, wearable devices, and ingestible sensors, the book offers valuable insights into the transformations taking place in mental health and digitalization. This book is a must-read for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between technology, mental health, and well-being in the modern world.

Weight: 303g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789819943210
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023