Using digital technologies for lifestyle interventions in mental healthcare 

For this session, we are joined by Dr Joseph Firth, UKRI Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, Honorary Fellow at Western Sydney University and Honorary Fellow at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.

There is an increasing amount of investment, research and innovation around using digital technologies (and particularly mobile devices) in novel ways to improve people’s physical health, particularly with regards to lifestyle, diet and fitness. However, the extent to which these new digital or “mHealth” solutions are accessible, usable and beneficial for people with mental illness is under-researched. 

This talk will discuss the ongoing programme of research around examining how digital technologies can be used to promote healthy lifestyles in the context of mental healthcare. Within this, the presentation will cover the evidence and opportunities for using these technologies in an effective, engaging manner to address health disparities and enhance recovery in mental health populations.