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Virtual reality is one tool for distancing where people create a realistic image of themselves, matching appearance and movement. By virtually “body-swapping”, they can view their virtual selves from a distance. And when there is distance from a problem, people detach from it emotionally and gain a different perspective. [More]

Our consumption habits are not rational. We overindulge in multiple areas of life. While the brain processes information as rewarding, it can put more value on the information than warranted which is why we get into rabbit holes of information online. [More]

As reported by Bloomberg, Amazon is developing a device to read human emotions and designed to work with a smartphone app. Microphones paired with software discern the wearer’s emotional state from the sound of his or her voice. [More]

Many people turn to smartphones for mental health assistance since most apps are free and can be used in the privacy of one's own home. (Whether or not the data is private is debatable). However, although new apps continue to come to market, a recent report found that only two-thirds of the apps recently studied were effective in diagnosing or managing a mental health condition. Does this mean professionals should discourage clients from using them? [More]

Hackathons traditionally are short term projects with a group of people collaborative on software projects. HackMentalHealth has a different focus. Recently hosting the second annual 24-hour Bay Area mental health hackathon with over 500 attendees, their goal is to positively revolutionize mental health care alongside technology. [More]

Facebook plays a role as a source of real - and fake - information and some feel it improves their social connections. But there are downsides. A recent Standard study found that not using it for a month improved well-being for participants. Will deleting Facebook make you happy? I asked professionals for their insight on the benefits of quitting Facebook. [More]

Physiological responses to negative emotions, activities we regularly engage in, mobile phone use and other passive signals tell a lot about a person. With advances in technology including wearable devices and smartphones, medical professionals can collect passive signals that may indicate a particular state of mind. [More]

Overuse of smartphones and tablets is an issue for people all ages, including those still learning to read. Enter TechDen, a tool for parents of kids between the ages of 2 and 12. [More]

More health plans offer telehealth as a service, including for mental health concerns, as research shows telehealth is effective. But will the increase in telehealth services improve mental health treatment, with more people seeking it out in the privacy of their homes or a more viable option for those in rural areas? Or will it become less effective with issues such as subtle nuances of body language missed on a video? [More]

Burnout and depression are nothing new in the workforce, yet some outlets highlight the high prevalence of these issues for those in technology professions. A recent study by TeamBlind.com found that 39% of tech workers are depressed, implying this is a bigger issue in the technology field than other areas. [More]