The Future of Depression Prevention and Treatment: an HCI Perspective - Petrovska 2016

This paper shows how technology can be used to prevent and cure mental diseases, including depression.

Mental health concerns are global. WHO says childhood and adolescent mental problems cost society a lot [6]. 80% of suicide victims were depressed [2]. Stress, depression, anxiety, and musculoskeletal problems accounted for 9.9 and 9.5 million days missed owing to work-related illness. [5].
In 2010-2011, 19% of 16-year-olds and older in the UK reported "some indication of anxiety or depression," with a larger number of women (21%) than men (16%). [7]. By 2020, depression could be the second most debilitating condition [2].
These facts urge for greater research of how technology, namely persuasive technology, may approach this challenge. This article focuses on preventing and treating depression with HCI (human-computer interface) persuasive technology strategies.
Since this essay focuses on using HCI to prevent and treat depression, it will evaluate existing technology-related approaches. The essay discusses how technology can improve traditional therapy.

Petrovska, O. The Future of Depression Prevention and Treatment: an HCI Perspective.