From dial-up forums in the 1990s to today’s AI-driven therapy tools, technology has been intertwined with mental health for more than three decades. What began as curiosity about “internet addiction” has evolved into nuanced, global research on how digital tools affect everything from depression and anxiety to psychosis risk.

After 30 years, the verdict is clear: technology’s impact on mental health is neither wholly good nor wholly bad — it depends on how it’s used, who is using it, and the context in which it’s applied. And across continents, some strikingly similar lessons have emerged.

Lesson 1: Access can save lives — but only if it’s equitable

Telehealth, online support groups, and mental health apps have widened access to care in countries where services were scarce. But digital divides — lack of devices, poor internet, low digital literacy — keep many from benefitting.

Lesson 2: Social connection online is real, but fragile

From rural villages to urban high-rises, people use online platforms to reduce isolation. Yet reliance on digital-only relationships can leave users vulnerable to misinformation, cyberbullying, and disconnection from local support.

Lesson 3: Harm travels faster than help

Social media can spread awareness campaigns in days — but also dangerous content, harassment, or triggering material at the same speed. Countries with strong digital literacy programs see better mental health outcomes.

Lesson 4: AI is a force multiplier

In low-resource settings, AI can triage patients, translate mental health resources, and offer basic interventions. But without governance, bias in AI systems risks worsening inequities.

Lesson 5: Context shapes outcomes

The same app can empower one user and harm another. Cultural norms, stigma levels, and healthcare infrastructure influence whether tech helps or hurts mental health.

The takeaway

Thirty years of research show that digital mental health is a moving target. The challenge now is global: scale what works, guard against harm, and share solutions across borders so no one gets left behind.

References (APA)

  • Naslund, J. A., et al. (2017). Digital technology for treating and preventing mental disorders in low-income and middle-income countries: A narrative review of the literature. The Lancet Psychiatry, 4(6), 486–500. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(17)30054-5
  • Moreno, M. A., & Uhls, Y. T. (2019). Applying an affordances approach and a developmental lens to approach adolescent social media use. Digital Health, 5, 2055207619826678. https://doi.org/10.1177/2055207619826678
  • World Health Organization. (2021). Ethics and governance of artificial intelligence for health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240029200

About the Author
Written byKevin Caridad, PhD, CEO of Cognitive Behavior Institute and CBI Center for Education.
 For speaking, training, or consultation: KevinCaridad@the-cbi.com
 Explore services: PAPsychotherapy.org • CBI Center for Education