Technology is leveraged to combat stress and promote mental health
Implications - As awareness and de-stigmatization of mental health continues to grow, an increase in technology trends around regulating stress and promoting emotional wellness are becoming more readily available for the everyday consumer. This beneficial shift demonstrates an increase in demand for technology that enhances the user's well-being, not just their lifestyle.
Workshop Question - Our culture is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of mental health. How does your company support its employees in this regard?
Trend Themes
1. Biometric Stress Assessment - Sensors and biometric seating systems that detect stress can be applied in various situations to promote health and wellness.
2. Mood-detecting Chatbots - Chatbots that can detect moods can interact with users on a daily basis to track how they feel and provide mood reports. They can also serve as a tool to identify mood disorders and enhance the services provided by mental health care professionals.
3. Virtual Reality Escapism - Virtual reality headsets offer a form of escapism for individuals who are undergoing stressful situations such as chemotherapy treatments. Opportunities exist to apply this technology in other healthcare settings to alleviate psychological and emotional stress.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Incorporating stress-assessing technology into vehicles such as biometric seating and driving aids can improve driver wellness and safety.
2. Healthcare - Technology that detects stress and promotes wellness can be used in healthcare settings, from traditional clinics to chemotherapy centers.
3. Artificial Intelligence - The development of mood-detecting chatbots that use artificial intelligence and natural language services opens opportunities for enhancements to services provided by mental health care professionals.
