Article
Technology for addiction recovery: apps, tools and resources
Blog Post from Verizon
Verizon's article delves into the intersection of technology and addiction recovery, showcasing the diverse array of innovations aiding individuals struggling with substance use disorders. From telehealth to virtual reality to mobile apps, these advancements offer new avenues for support and intervention. Telehealth services, including therapy sessions and virtual doctor visits, have become especially vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring accessibility to care, particularly in rural areas. Digital therapeutics, such as the FDA-approved reSET program, supplement traditional treatments with cognitive behavioral therapy.
Artificial intelligence facilitates crisis intervention and prediction of relapse, while neurofeedback technology helps patients self-regulate brain functions to counteract cravings. Virtual reality exposes individuals to triggers in a safe environment, aiding in the development of coping skills. Mobile apps provide a range of self-help tools and support networks accessible anytime, anywhere. Despite these benefits, challenges such as the need for stable internet connectivity and access to internet-connected devices persist, underscoring disparities in access to technology-driven recovery resources.
Key Takeaways from the Verizon Article
- Technological Advancements in Addiction Recovery: Various technologies, including telehealth, virtual reality, mobile apps, and artificial intelligence, are transforming addiction recovery by providing innovative solutions for support and intervention.
- Telehealth Services: Telehealth offers convenient and safe avenues for individuals to receive support, including virtual therapy sessions, doctor visits, and group therapy, particularly crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Digital Therapeutics: FDA-approved digital therapeutic programs like reSET supplement traditional treatments with cognitive behavioral therapy, offering additional support for managing substance use disorders.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI plays a vital role in crisis intervention and predicting relapse by analyzing patterns in behavior and search queries, enhancing proactive care and support.
- Neurofeedback Technology: Neurofeedback aids in self-regulating brain functions to counteract cravings, offering a valuable tool for addiction treatment.
- Virtual Reality (VR): VR exposure therapy provides a safe environment to confront triggers, helping individuals develop coping skills crucial for recovery.
- Mobile Apps: A variety of self-help mobile apps offer sobriety tracking, motivational messages, and support networks, providing accessible resources for individuals seeking help.
- Benefits of Technology for Addiction Recovery: Technology increases accessibility to addiction recovery services, mitigates time barriers, and provides a sense of privacy, addressing challenges like geographic location and stigma associated with addiction.
- Challenges and Drawbacks: Despite its benefits, technology-dependent recovery services require stable internet connectivity, access to internet-connected devices, and may incur costs, exacerbating disparities in access to care based on income, location, and connectivity.
- Call for Equitable Access: Efforts are needed to address disparities in access to technology-driven recovery resources, ensuring equitable access for all individuals seeking addiction treatment.
From the Article:
"From telehealth to wellness mobile apps, researchers are implementing technological innovations in a variety of ways for addiction recovery. These technologies serve a myriad of purposes. Some assist in managing and counteracting cravings, while others help recognize and intervene in crises. Together, these innovations mean new hope for people struggling with a substance use disorder. "
Get a Free Trial
InterAct offers virtual care solutions and referral solutions to treatment programs for extended care after in-patient treatment, family support programs and intensive outpatient services.
