Big Technology Podcast How Tech Can Actually Help Mental Health — With Ex-National Institute of Mental Health director Dr. Tom Insel
Jan 26, 2022
Dr. Tom Insel, the former director of the National Institute of Mental Health and current leader in mental health innovation at Alphabet's Verily, discusses the intersection of technology and mental health. He highlights how smartphone data can transform treatment methodologies while addressing privacy concerns. Insel explores the dual nature of social media, weighing its benefits against potential harms, particularly for youth during the COVID era. He also emphasizes the urgency for innovative solutions targeting serious mental illnesses, fostering hope for the future of mental health care.
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The Chemistry of the Paint
- Dr. Insel realized the limitations of scientific research when a parent criticized his focus on the science behind mental illness.
- The parent argued that while research was important, it wasn't addressing the immediate needs of those struggling with mental health issues.
Measurement in Mental Health
- Measurement is crucial for managing and improving outcomes in any disease, including mental health.
- Unlike other areas of medicine, mental health relies heavily on subjective reports, hindering progress.
Smartphones as Diagnostic Tools
- Data from smartphones, like text and call logs, could offer objective insights into mental health, unlike subjective self-reports.
- This data could empower patients to manage their illness by providing early warning signs of manic or depressive episodes.
