A new study from Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust challenges long-held beliefs about wearable tech use in severe mental illness. Among 83 hospitalised patients most detained under the Mental Health Act 65% were open to wearing visible sensors, and nearly 70% accepted concealed devices. The findings show a strong willingness to engage with technology during mental health crises.

“This preliminary evidence is vital,” said Prof. Jeroen Bergmann of the NIHR HealthTech Research Centre. “It challenges the narrative that people with severe mental illness won’t engage with technology.”

Patients preferred devices resembling everyday items like watches, with over half supporting 24-hour monitoring. Compared to those with chronic physical illness, these patients were more accepting of visible devices but more cautious about data sharing.

Given the 20-year life expectancy gap for mental health patients mainly from preventable physical conditions real-time monitoring may significantly improve care. The study emphasizes inclusive sensor design and patient-centred innovation.

Researchers: Alvaro Barrera, Ana Ghenciulescu, Niamh Owens, Ariana Cortez, Riccardo De Giorgi, and Phil Cowen.

Source: https://eng.ox.ac.uk/news/study-shows-patients-in-mental-health-crisis-are-open-to-wearable-monitoring/#:~:text=Study%20shows%20patients%20in%20mental%20health%20crisis%20are%20open%20to%20wearable%20monitoring,-Findings%20challenge%20perceptions&text=A%20new%20study%20has%20challenged,Oxford%20Health%20NHS%20Foundation%20Trust