Technology Meets Self-Help
Titled “Optimism,” there is a supercool new software that prompts you to keep a detailed record of all things that affect your state of mind. The company explains that by “monitoring patterns in your life you can identify negative influences that you need to avoid, early warning signs that your health is deteriorating, and the inputs and activities that benefit you most. Simple charts highlight cause and effect relationships that you might normally miss, and you can develop a Health Plan to follow and update as you learn more about the things that positively and negatively affect you.”
One woman who struggled with a variety of mental health issues described her experience with the software as a means of taking a more active role in her own recovery. It’s the same reason why Weight Watchers makes people keep a food journal. That extra level of accountability can encourage program compliance. You can chart staying well strategies, triggers and symptoms.
I also like the additional benefit that by keeping a mood diary you can provide your health professional with a precise, detailed history. It removes the problem of memory recall and gives an accurate picture of what has been happening. It gets to the bottom of what is or isn't working, which helps them to give more relevant, appropriate advice and treatment.
http://www.findingoptimism.com
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