The field of psychiatry has “undertaken a major transformation due to advancements in technology, greater understanding of mental health and changing societal attitudes”, feels Dr Deepak Raheja, a senior psychiatrist and former president of the Delhi Psychiatric Society and director of Hope Care India.
From accessibility via the internet to increased privacy and remote access, the psychiatric profession itself has undergone a 360-degree change, said Dr Kersi Chavda, consultant psychiatrist at PD Hinduja Hospital, Khar, Mumbai.
These are some of the common observations on how psychiatric practice has evolved over the past 15-20 years: “Generation Z is very comfortable online, hence psychiatrists have no choice but to become adept at telemedicine (as per the laws laid down by the government), which has fundamentally changed the impact of psychiatrists on people with mental illnesses,” says Dr Chavda, who has over 34 years of experience.
What are some of the common issues you’re seeing right now?
Notably, experts say Gen Z Contemporary Issues Compared to Gen X, Y and previous generations, Gen Z faces major challenges with digital overload and the pressures of social media. “Having grown up with smartphones and social media, Gen Z is constantly connected, leading to information overload, sleep disorders and lack of rest,” says Dr Raheja.
According to Dr. Raheja, serving Gen Z patients requires a different approach than older age groups because they’ve grown up in a digitalized world. “This generation is generally more open about discussing their mental health, which is a positive change, but they also often experience higher levels of anxiety, stress and depression,” Dr. Raheja explained, noting that he tries to address the impact of his patients’ digital lives on their mental health.
“I also offer short and frequent check-ins via telepsychiatry to cater to my patients’ preferences for immediate and flexible communication. Additionally, I focus on building resilience and coping strategies to help them navigate the pressures of a highly connected and competitive environment. This customized approach is in contrast to the older population, who prefer face-to-face sessions and may benefit more from traditional therapy and a focus on work-life balance, family relationships and long-term stress management strategies,” Dr. Raheja explained.
Digital addiction leads to problems such as reduced attention span, sleep disorders and reduced real-life experiences. Social interactionExperts say.
Cyberbullying also has serious mental health effects, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts among Gen Z people.
Even the pressure that social media places on people to create the perfect online persona can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem and fear of missing out (FOMO), experts say.
Academic pressure, economic uncertainty, financial insecurity, issues of identity and diversity, as well as discrimination, prejudice and culture clashes, can still be major challenges.
So, what’s good about it?
Perhaps one of the biggest changes is the use of technology and apps to address mental health issues. “We know that the earlier someone is identified with the condition, the earlier treatment can begin and the outcome will be better. That’s why psychiatrists are spreading awareness among young people through social media and trying to inform kids and parents about all the things they can do to use medication and treatment wisely,” says Dr Chavda.
Another change is the shift in societal attitudes and awareness, asserts Dr Raheja, who has over 25 years of experience in the field: “The stigma around mental health has reduced significantly. More men are seeking treatment for anxiety and depression, something that was not common during the early days of my career. One of my male patients was initially hesitant to talk about his mental health due to societal expectations, but once he got over that hesitation, he found the treatment life-changing,” explains Dr Raheja.
Dr Chavda noted that considering that today’s Gen Z is more accepting of “different” issues like LGBTQ+ issues, psychiatrists must also be up to date on transgender, gay, gender dysphoric aspects.
Psychiatry has evolved to address the unique needs and challenges faced by patients of different age groups, and experts suggest that patients have become more aware of new mental illnesses and new treatments. strategy Something that has come into being with the help of the internet as well as social media.
Earlier, psychiatrists prescribed a fixed pattern of treatment for almost every patient and had little technology. “Now, we have started tailoring treatment to patients depending on their age, gender, symptoms like severity of sleep disorder, anxiety level, socio-economic status, overall physique and many other factors. Over time, we have adopted newer methods of psychotherapy and counselling. It has become more concise and goal-oriented,” said Dr Shubhkarman Singh Saini, MD, Psychiatry, Manjeet Saini Hospital, Jalandhar.
Dr Saini said Generation Z is more aware, more “open” and also more vulnerable to major mental illnesses due to peer pressure, social media addiction, pressure to present a perfect image online, increased competition among young people, disrupted relationships, career progression and use of alcohol and illicit drugs during early adolescence.
“Though dealing with them is more difficult, we sitting on the other side of the table have a lot to learn from them and it is interesting. To address these issues, telepsychiatry, mental health apps and online therapy sessions have been developed to provide accessible and convenient ways for Gen Z to seek help. They can now access a psychiatrist at work or while sitting at home with the help of online video consultations,” explained Dr Saini, who has over 24 years of experience.
Tools to make a difference
Dr. Raheja said the integration of digital mental health tools, such as mood tracking apps and online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs, “allows patients to be active participants in their treatment. These tools provide valuable real-time data, allowing for more precise and personalized interventions,” he said.
Recently, Dr Saini said his hospital has introduced a “compact wireless headset” that works on the principle of tDCS (transcranial direct current stimulation), which stimulates the part of the brain responsible for treating depression and other neurotic disorders.
“It is extremely simple to use, can be self-administered and is affordable. It has shown excellent results for patients suffering from depression, anxiety, OCD, smoking and other mental illnesses,” Dr Saini said.
Dr Saini explained that social media awareness campaigns are beginning to address issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and migraines, as well as peer support networks and group therapy – something that was barely featured about 20 years ago.
Concerns
The downside, says Dr Chavda, is the “Dr Google syndrome.” “Everybody thinks that if they spend four hours on Google, they’ll become a doctor, or be able to debate doctors,” he says.
Dr Raheja stressed that with the increase in information available online, patients often come in with preconceived notions and misinformation about their condition, and that careful guidance and education is needed.
Psychiatrists also have to address the issues of social media that Gen Z enjoys. “This includes excessive gaming and cyberbullying. These are new issues that weren’t being talked about 15 years ago,” Dr Chavda said.
What is the conclusion?
Despite these challenges, psychiatrists argue that the benefits of a digitally integrated approach are undeniable. Accessibility “Advances and convenience in digital tools have made mental health care more comprehensive and adaptable to the needs of a connected generation. As psychiatrists, embracing these technological advancements has enabled us to provide more comprehensive, responsive and personalized care to our patients, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and overall health,” said Dr. Raheja.
