Mobile phone technology for improved mental health care in South Africa: possibilities and challenges

We consider the potential and current uses of mobile phones in the mental health field in South Africa. From the limited research conducted, mobile phones seem most suited to enhancing cognitive behavioural therapy. In addition, mobile phones seem to have many other benefits, such as increasing adherence to medication, allowing therapists to monitor clients’ progress, improving the therapeutic relationship, and providing information to both clients and therapists. We also examine the ethical concerns and challenges related to mental health care in South Africa and emphasise the need for psychologists to exercise caution in incorporating such technologies into their practice. At this stage, there is insufficient evidence to support the notion that these technologies can replace face-to-face interventions; however, they have many properties which, if used correctly and with ethical considerations, may enhance therapy, prevention, and public mental health.