Modernization has undoubtedly made our lives more convenient, introducing technological advancements and streamlined processes that save time and effort. However, this fast pace of life takes a toll on mental health. The constant pressure to perform, stay connected, and keep up with an ever-evolving world has led to increased stress, anxiety, and burnout.

Overexposure to social media, lack of downtime, and erosion of work-life balance only add to these challenges. While progress has its benefits, it has also highlighted the need for effective mental health strategies, reminding us that true well-being requires a balance between advancement and inner peace.

Emerging Technologies in Mental Wellness: Dr Ashish Bansal, MD, consultant psychiatrist and co-founder of House of Aesthetics in New Delhi, says there is an urgent need to address mental health challenges by combining traditional treatments with new-age technologies.

• neurofeedback therapy: Dr. Bansal describes this technique as a way to regulate brain wave patterns using EEG monitoring. “It is a great therapy for relieving anxiety, PTSD, etc. and helps individuals focus,” he says.

• Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: This therapy is a very emerging approach for intensive treatment and overcoming end-of-life anxiety, depression etc. Dr. Bansal says that psychiatrists are trying to use this technology to help individuals heal better.

• Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET): Dr. Bansal explains how VRET helps individuals face fears and overcome phobias or anxiety. He says, “When a psychotherapist makes his clients aware of the fears that cause anxiety, he helps them overcome their challenges.”

• heart rate and respiratory rate variability: Dr. Bansal says, “Research has proven a direct link between mental health and heart rate variability (HRV) as well as respiratory rate variability (RRV). These reflect the state of the body’s autonomic nervous system which is responsible for regulating mood and achieving emotional balance. HRV biofeedback therapy is useful for managing anxiety and depressive symptoms.

• conscious: Amish Dhingra, ICF-PCC Certified Life Coach and co-founder of Cocoweave Coaching International, explains that mindfulness is one of the simplest yet most effective strategies for navigating life’s complexities. It involves leaving behind the troubles of the past and the worries of the future and living in the present moment. He recommends starting with 5-10 minutes and gradually increasing the duration.

• sound therapy: Dhingra highlights sound therapy as an effective way to align the mind with the body. Using instruments such as gongs and tuning forks, this technique uses vibrations and frequencies to calm the chaotic mind. These sounds mimic brain waves, helping individuals enter a meditative, deeply therapeutic state.

• visualization techniques: Dhingra also promotes visualization, which encourages individuals to imagine the reality they want to manifest. By focusing on a goal in detail and imagining the feelings associated with its achievement, this method helps promote positivity and clarity.

• digital detox: Dhingra emphasizes the importance of taking a break from social media. He recommends establishing screen-free hours to reduce digital dependence and replacing mindless scrolling with informational reading.

• Mapping Goals with a Life Coach: According to Dhingra, a life coach not only motivates individuals but also helps in resolving personal, professional and internal conflicts. Acting as a helpful guide, they help broaden perspective and deal with challenges.

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