Methods and Case Studies for Promoting Mental Health in a Digital Media Environment

In today's digital age, digital media has become an important part of people's lives and has had a profound impact on mental health. In this blog, we will look at ways to promote mental health work in digital media environments and analyze them with examples from Finland and China.

Digital media and mental health challenges

With the popularity of social media, online videos and apps, people's lifestyles and socialization patterns have changed dramatically. However, the digital media environment has also brought about a number of mental health challenges, including information overload, social anxiety, self-comparison and cyberbullying.

Application of client work methods in digital media environments

Providing online mental health resources

In the digital media environment, people can be helped with mental health issues by providing online mental health resources. For example, mental health websites and apps offer psychological assessments, self-help courses, and guided meditations to help users learn skills to cope with stress and anxiety.

Utilize Social Media to Spread Positive Messages

Social media platforms can be an important channel for spreading positive messages and encouraging mental health. Mental health experts and organizations can provide psychological support and motivation to users by posting positive mental health messages, encouraging quotes and supportive content.

Conducting online psychological counseling and therapy

With the development of digital technology, more and more psychological counseling and therapy services are being offered online. Through videoconferencing, text chat and telephone counseling, users can access professional mental health support anytime, anywhere, which to some extent makes up for the limitations of traditional face-to-face counseling.

Case study of mental health work in Finland

1. The Vastaamo case

Vastaamo is a Finnish psychological clinic that was involved in a massive data breach. The incident resulted in tens of thousands of patients' personal information being compromised, raising social concerns about mental health data security in the digital media environment. The Finnish government and related organizations have strengthened the regulation of personal data protection, enhancing the safety and reliability of mental health services in the digital media environment.

2. Mental health applications and online platforms

The Finnish government has funded and supported the development of mental health apps and online platforms to provide more choices for residents. For example, "Mielenterveystalo" is an online mental health service platform where users can find a variety of mental health resources and professional advice.

Case studies of mental health work in China

1. WeChat and mental health content

In China, many mental health experts and organizations publish mental health content through WeChat to disseminate positive mental health information and knowledge to the public. This approach makes mental health knowledge more popular and accessible, providing the public with easy access.

2. Online psychological counseling platforms

Many online psychological counseling platforms have emerged in China, such as Dr. Clove and Good Mood, which provide users with convenient mental health counseling services. Users can communicate with counselors through text, voice and video to get personalized psychological support.

Research in the fields of psychology and social work suggests that digital media can provide a wider range of channels and more flexible approaches to mental health work. For example, some studies have found that through online communities and forums, people can access support and advice from peers and professionals to reduce psychological stress and isolation.

Digital media offer more possibilities for mental health work, including strengthening mental health promotion and education, enhancing the coverage of psychological counseling services, and improving mental health data management and security. Through the rational use of digital media, we can better meet the demand for mental health services from all walks of life and promote people's mental health and well-being.

In the digital media environment, we need to continuously explore and innovate to discover more effective mental health work methods to provide better psychological support for individuals and society.

Reference Link:

Vastaamo event

Mielenterveystalo - Finland's mental health platform

Finland's digitalized financial assistance framework for individuals and their families

 

The development of information and communication technology has been rapid over the past 20 years. The internet and its virtual dimension are now available and readily accessible in our daily lives thanks to smartphones ,tablet and computers. Our behaviour, interpersonal relationships, and social participation have all changed and will continue to grow. Our daily lives now involve a virtual environment. It is an essential context for our social life, political and economic processes, learning and education, and decision-making. It is a valuable information resource and the Oracle we consult most frequently for help and guidance.

Financial assistance services, such as Kela, frequently use websites and online platforms for customer interactions in the context of digital media. This includes sending in applications, uploading files, and getting alerts via email. In order to ensure clear and effective communication, Kela may also use social media platforms to interact with the public to share information. The Finnish Social Insurance Institution, Kela, uses a range of digital techniques to communicate with its clients.

Online Portals:

 Families and individuals can apply for benefits, monitor the status of their applications, and manage their information through the safe online portals offered by Kela. Kela's e-service for individual clients is called OmaKela.

It's convenient to handle your Kela-related matters online because you may do it from anywhere at any time. Kela receives your application and any accompanying documentation immediately. You can also check OmaKela to determine whether your application is lacking any necessary information or supporting materials.

The OmaKela e-service can be utilized for:

·         apply for benefits

·         send supporting documents

·         look up decisions on your applications

·         check payment dates and benefit amounts

·         report changes

·         send and read messages. 

 

You will be received decisions via OmaKela and email. OmaKela displays a notification on the home screen whenever you receive a new ruling or letter. You may readily view all of your correspondence and judgements under "Päätökset ja muut asiakirjasi." For roughly two years, all of the documents that you receive will be accessible in OmaKela.

Read up on the benefits and their qualifying requirements first if you want to find out if you qualify for them. For various advantages, you might, for instance, look at the "Who can get" pages. To find out if you might be qualified, use an online calculator. 

Check out the pages on "How to apply" as well for the benefits that apply to you. For instance, you will discover details on the supporting documents that are required to be submitted with your application.

Submit your application online after that. You can speed up the processing of your application by properly filling it out and attaching the required supporting documentation.

An overview of all the matters you have remaining will appear on the OmaKela home page. "Oma asiointi" allows you to look up decisions and payment dates, as well as see if you have received any communications or requests for more information. Along with a time estimate, you will also be able to see if your application is being processed.

Support:

In order to help customers in real time by responding to their questions and offering advice, Kela may provide virtual assistants or online support.

Social Media Presence:

 Kela might interact with the public, respond to frequently asked questions, and publish information on social media sites. YouTube, for instance

 

These digital techniques improve accessibility, streamline procedures, and boost general effectiveness in Finland's financial support service delivery.

Furthermore, individuals, non-governmental and non-profit organisations, and associations providing social and welfare related services have recognised the opportunities that online tools can provide for people in difficult situations and now offer various forms of help and support on the internet, in contrast to the relatively slow development of information and communication technology seen in public social work. Online services and support are offered to clients by organisations like the Mannerheim League for Child Welfare (www.mll.fi), the Finnish Association for Mental Health (www.mielenterveysseura.fi), and the student support centre Nyyti ry (www.nyyti.fi). Due to their lack of legal responsibilities, these organisations have been allowed to test with various strategies for providing services and communicating with current and potential clients. These organisations' operations are supported by Finland's Slot Machine Association (RAY) or private foundations. As a result, their financial structure allows for greater experimentation and introduction of new methods, such as the integration of information and communication technology into social work, than does publicly funded municipal social work.

attempt to explain the state of affairs in Finland at the moment and highlights the overlap between the digital platform and non. Those who depend on internet services because of things like being in rural areas, having trouble travelling concerning, suffering irregular work schedules, or having disabilities. The area outside of the digitalized platform for those who, for lack of equipment or ICT abilities, depend on offline services. When planning and developing social services, it is crucial to take into account the two categories of people who do not overlap since they are the ones who are most likely to become marginalised because of the unequal possibilities that they have to access the social services that they may require.

Reference

C_Granholm_DR_avhd_2016_PDF_version.pdf (fskompetenscentret.fi)

Our Services | Kela

 

Using Digital Media in Adult Social Work (PART 4): Rehabilitative Work Activities

 Monja Coen is a Brazilian Buddhist nun known for her talks and teachings. Born in São Paulo in 1947, she started her spiritual journey in Zen Buddhism in the 1980s and later became a nun.

 

Monja Coen is praised for making Buddhist teachings easy to understand and relevant to people's daily lives. She has written books on spirituality and Buddhism. Aside from her role as a nun, she speaks at events and has a YouTube channel where she shares her insights. People appreciate her calm and practical approach, seeking guidance for modern life challenges.

Picture: google pictures 2023

Nun Coen talk about the power of meditation can help people who are going through tough times, especially when dealing with mental and emotional struggles. By practicing mindfulness meditation, individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, leading to a sense of calm and reduced stress. Meditation also helps manage emotions better, making it a useful tool for those facing anxiety or depression. It has been found effective in dealing with chronic pain and improving sleep quality. Beyond these benefits, regular meditation can enhance self-awareness and resilience. 

Picture: Amazon books 2023

Nun Coen has written many self help books and it became very popular among many people in Brazil and abroad.

it's important to remember that meditation is not a substitute for professional mental health care, and those experiencing significant distress should seek help from professionals. Choosing a meditation style that feels comfortable and incorporating it regularly into one's routine is key to experiencing its positive effects.

Leveraging Social Media to Navigate Social Work Among Youngsters

Radhipa Fiona Perera on 4 March 2024

In the world of social work, using social media is very important. As our world becomes more connected, using different online platforms can make a big impact on social work projects. Social media isn't just for connecting with people; it's a powerful tool for building communities, spreading awareness about important issues, and allowing professionals to make a positive impact. 

Let's take a closer look at how these influencers are doing a good job of using these platforms to connect with and teach young people, especially those who are 15 to 25 years old.

 Image from: MTV Uutiset

#1. Laakari.atte on Instagram

Instagram Profile: Laakari.atte

What it contains: Laakari Atte, a Finnish doctor, employs Instagram to share visually appealing and informative content centered around the fight against substance abuse and addiction. The content mix includes posts offering tips on maintaining mental health, presenting facts about addiction, and delivering motivational messages.

Audience size: 70.5K followers

How he reaches his Target Group:

1. by their visual content - Instagram's visual-centric nature is harnessed by Laakari.atte through the use of eye-catching infographics, short videos, and visually appealing images. This ensures that the content is not only informative but also engaging.

2. using Hashtags - Relevant hashtags, such as #SubstanceAbuseAwareness and #AddictionRecovery, are strategically incorporated. This practice increases the discoverability of the content, reaching a wider audience interested in these critical topics. 

3. by story features - Instagram Stories play a pivotal role in real-time engagement. Laakari.atte utilizes this feature for updates, Q&A sessions, and interactive elements, fostering direct engagement with the younger audience.

#2. The.Truth.Doctor on TikTok

Image from:  TikTok 

TikTok Handle: @the.truth.doctor

What it covers: Dr. Courtney Tracy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, plays a crucial role in using social media to provide valuable insights into addiction, mental health, depression, and therapy. 

Audience Size: 1.7 million followers

How she reaches her Target Group:

1. Short-Form Videos -TikTok's format allows Dr. Tracy to deliver attention-grabbing content. The short videos, characterized by creative storytelling and visuals, resonate well with the younger audience, making the message more impactful.

2. Online Community - Dr. Tracy runs an online community with free memberships, aiming to support individuals on their mental health journey. While not a substitute for therapy, the community offers courses, private sessions, live Q&As, and webinars. 

3. Advice and Guidance - She offers practical advice, including guidance on approaching parents about therapy and dealing with unsupportive family or cultural backgrounds.

4. Hashtag Challenges - Launching hashtag challenges amplifies the reach of the.truth.doctor's content. By encouraging users to participate and use specific hashtags, the message gains traction and reaches a broader audience.

More Reads...

How can we use social media for social work?

To address social issues such as decreasing bullying, the choice of social media platform would depend on the target audience and the type of content that would be most effective in conveying anti-bullying messages. Here are considerations for various platforms:

1. Instagram

Audience: Predominantly younger demographic.

Strengths:  Visual content is highly engaging, allowing for the creation of impactful anti-bullying graphics, videos, and stories.

Features: IG Stories and IGTV can be utilized for short, attention-grabbing content.

2. TikTok

Audience: Primarily younger users.

Strengths: Short-form videos are popular, providing an opportunity for creative and viral content. Trends and challenges can spread awareness rapidly.

Features: Duets and collaborations can encourage user participation.

3. YouTube 

Audience: Diverse age groups, including both younger and older audiences.

Strengths: Longer-form videos allow for in-depth discussions, interviews, and storytelling. Suitable for comprehensive anti-bullying campaigns.

Features: Comments and community engagement can foster conversations.

4. Twitter 

Audience: Diverse, but particularly popular among users seeking real-time information.

Strengths: Short, concise messages can be used for quick anti-bullying tips, awareness campaigns, and sharing relevant news.

Features: Hashtags and retweets can amplify the reach of messages.

5. Facebook

Audience: Broad demographic, including older users.

Strengths: Suitable for sharing longer-form content, articles, and organizing events or campaigns.

Features: Groups and pages can be used to build communities around anti-bullying initiatives.

6. Snapchat

Audience: Younger demographic.

Strengths: Stories and disappearing content can create a sense of urgency, fostering real-time engagement.

Features: Lenses and filters can be used to create engaging anti-bullying content.

In wrapping up, think about where your audience spends their time online, tailor your anti-message accordingly, and choose platforms that encourage the kind of interaction you're aiming for. Don't limit yourself to just one platform – using multiple can help you connect with a broader audience. And remember, adding interactive elements, encouraging users to share their own content, and teaming up with influencers or organizations can boost the effectiveness of your social work campaigns on social media. Together, let's make a positive impact in Social Work!

 

Theme – 04 - Digital Media in Early Childhood Education

It's interesting to note the differences in approach between the Finnish and mostly Western education system, which often integrates digital media into early childhood education (ECE), and the educational practices in my country (Sri Lanka) which prioritize physical activities and kinesthetic learning over digital media and devices. Both approaches have their merits, and demerits and it's important to recognize that there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to early childhood education.

In countries like Sri Lanka, where there is not appropriate involvement with digital media in ECE, educators can still incorporate elements of digital literacy and technology in a balanced way that complements the existing curriculum and cultural context.

Continue to prioritize physical activities and kinesthetic learning experiences, as they play a crucial role in children's cognitive development and overall well-being.

While digital media may not be extensively used, educators can still introduce age-appropriate digital tools and activities that align with the curriculum and enhance learning outcomes. This could include incorporating simple educational apps or interactive whiteboard activities that complement traditional teaching methods.

 

Encourage creative expression and critical thinking skills through non-digital means such as storytelling, role-playing, and hands-on projects. These activities can stimulate imagination and problem-solving abilities without relying heavily on digital devices.

 

Incorporate elements of Sri Lankan culture, traditions, and local contexts into learning experiences. This can include storytelling sessions featuring traditional folk tales, exploring local wildlife and ecosystems through nature walks, or engaging in community-based projects.

 

Take advantage of Sri Lanka's natural beauty and diverse landscapes by organizing outdoor excursions and field trips. This allows children to connect with nature, learn about environmental conservation, and engage in physical activities outside the classroom.

 

Foster strong partnerships with parents and communities to support children's learning both at home and in school. Provide resources and guidance on how families can facilitate learning experiences that integrate technology in a balanced way, respecting cultural values and preferences.

By adopting a mindful and culturally sensitive approach to integrating technology in early childhood education, educators can ensure that children receive a well-circulated education that addresses their developmental needs while preparing them for the digital world in a way that is respectful of their cultural context.

 

By using digital media selectively and purposefully, ensuring it enhances learning experiences without overshadowing hands-on activities. For example, educators might use relative apps or interactive whiteboards for certain lessons. One advantage is that digital media can enhance visual and auditory learning experiences. ( More into kinesthetic learning approach) However, over-reliance on screens can hinder social interaction, limit physical activity, and potentially lead to screen addiction if not carefully monitored.

Advantages of Digital Media on ECE

• It Prepares children for technology use in the modern world.
• It Enhances visual and auditory learning experiences.
• It Provides access to educational content and resources.
• It Can cater to different learning styles.
• It provides accessibility to interact with global cultures  

Disadvantages:

• If Overuse of digital media can detract from hands-on, sensory experiences Excessive screen time can lead to health issues like eye strain and obesity.
• May hinder social interaction and communication skills development
• Addiction to screens will decrease the emotional feelings which leads to loss of humor and sensitivity.
• Requires careful monitoring and supervision to ensure age-appropriate content and usage.

Social media and Finland's younger generation

Finland's youth population was significantly using social media, including myself, which is consistent with the nation's general trend of high internet and social media penetration. In Finland, most young people have access to the internet, and internet penetration is high. The widespread use of social media platforms has been made easier by this and they use social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter often. These social media platforms facilitate content sharing, networking, and maintaining relationships with loved ones.

As we all know, Finland is a country that values education, especially digital literacy. Young people frequently possess a strong awareness of digital privacy, how to navigate online environments, and how to critically assess content found on social media and they have taken to incorporating modern technologies into schooling has gained them recognition. Social media use in particular is frequently considered as a tool for improving educational opportunities and encouraging young people's creativity.

Finland has taken action to increase awareness and educate young people about the effects of online harassment because it recognizes the importance of fighting cyberbullying. Programs to combat bullying are frequently incorporated into school curricula, and campaigns to promote responsible and polite online conduct are undertaken. The purpose of educational programs established in young people the value of responsible online conduct, which includes using digital platforms in an ethical manner, respecting the privacy of others, and being aware of the possible repercussions of sharing offensive content. However, concerns about children and teenagers spending too much time in front of screens have been actively addressed by Finland. Parental guidelines and education campaigns stress the value of keeping a balance between screen time and other activities, such exercise and in-person social contacts. Digital literacy is highly valued in the Finnish educational system, which makes sure that students have the knowledge and abilities to safely and critically explore the internet. This involves learning how trustworthy internet sources are and improving your critical thinking abilities.

Young people in Finland frequently use mobile devices to access social media, in line with worldwide trends. Platforms and apps focused on mobile devices are popular with this group of users. Young Finns use social media as a forum to share their ideals, hobbies, and cultural identities. It offers a forum for connecting with like-minded people and expressing oneself. The Finnish government has been actively involved in promoting digital literacy and safe online practices among young people. Various initiatives aim to equip them with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.

Although social media offers plenty of advantages, it also has drawbacks, especially for young people in Finland and other countries as well. Online platforms offer anonymity and distance, which may be factors in the prevalence of cyberbullying. Social media harassment, threats, and exclusion can negatively affect young people's mental and emotional health and overuse of social media has been connected to mental health issues like loneliness, depression, anxiety and along with other excessive screen time, can cause addiction-like behaviour. Young people's sleep patterns, physical health, and general well-being may all suffer as a result. And also, Social networking sites frequently present a carefully selected and imagined version, which raises impossible standards of beauty. For young people, this can result in low self-esteem and problems with body image when they compare themselves to virtual representations. Moreover, it’s possible that young people don't always fully understand the privacy dangers involved with sharing personal information online. On social media, oversharing and dangerous behaviour can have long-term effects and Misinformation and disinformation can come via social media. It is possible for young kids to be exposed to inaccurate or misleading information, which could affect how they see the world and current events. According to my references, Finland as well as globally being made efforts to solve these kinds of problems through governmental initiatives, education programs, and awareness campaigns. I think it seems like the best plan to pursue for a better tomorrow.

 

 

References

Report: Young people follow traditional media sources, but use new methods | Yle News | Yle

Survey: Finnish youngsters envision social media being about influence and equality – online bullying concerns them (tietoevry.com)

 Young people using Social Media.

Digital media plays a significant role in the lives of younger people today. They are continuously interacting with a digital environment that presents both advantages and disadvantages. Digital media's impact on the younger generation is complicated and always modifying, from peer connections and information availability to managing problems such online harassment and digital addiction. Understanding the complicated nature of their digital encounters is essential in fulfilling their needs and building a positive relationship with technology.

“A new Pew Research Center survey of American teenagers ages 13 to 17 finds TikTok has rocketed in popularity since its North American debut several years ago and now is a top social media platform for teens among the platforms covered in this survey.” (Vogels.E, Watnick.R, Massarat.N 2022).

According to the research that I have mentioned, most of the youngers use the app TikTok. But in the past Facebook took a part of the youngers’ lives. As well as it shows addiction for the Tik Tok app. Not only that Instagram, Snapchat also dramatically increased in past years but not much TikTok.

Trends on social media, including those from TikTok, are having an increasing effect on education. Many trends are harmless, but some threaten school property and student safety at danger. It's critical that school administrators keep up to be updated on the latest social media trends and have open discussions with youngsters about the dangers and consequences of adopting specific trends.

“In recent weeks, the hashtag "deviouslicks" or the "bathroom challenge" has been trending. This trend encourages students to record themselves vandalizing school bathrooms and stealing school property.” (ESD112 Insurance programme)

This challenge has caused a nationwide increase in the theft of different goods from schools, including signs, restroom mirrors, Covid supplies, and fire alarms. Due to this trend, schools have been obliged to implement systems for approving bathroom usage, close restrooms, increase surveillance in the restrooms, and take disciplinary action against pupils. Teachers and staff are actively teaching kids about the ramifications of taking part in these challenges, with a focus on possible legal and school discipline.

The "dry scooping" is a well-liked but risky trend. When someone engages in "dry scooping," they swallow a scoop of protein or pre-workout powder without first combining it with water. It has been observed that this concentrated eating caused struggle to breathe, heart attacks, high blood pressure, and brain enlargement.

Young people can optimize the positive aspects of digital media use while limiting any potential negative effects by using it mindfully and in moderation, which will ultimately result in a satisfying and happy digital experience.

 References.

TikTok trends and challenges. ESD112 Insurance Programs Risk Alert. Accessed on 21.02.2024. https://www.esd112.org/?mailpoet_router&endpoint=view_in_browser&action=view&data=WzEyNCwiZTVmZGEzYmEyN2NhIiwwLDAsMTI5LDFd

Vogels.E, Watnick.R, Massarat.N.2022. Teens, social media and Technology.21.02.2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2022/08/10/teens-social-media-and-technology-2022/