MHA-140 Intro to Mental Health: Module 7

Trends and emerging issues in mental health care

The field of mental health is always evolving. This module looks at current trends like telehealth, shifts in public policy, and efforts to improve access and equity. You’ll consider how these changes affect both providers and clients.

Discussions: Mental Health in the Headlines

Mental health is showing up in the news, social media, policy conversations, and everyday life more than ever before. For this discussion, find a recent article (published within the last 2 years) related to a current trend or emerging issue in mental health. This could focus on:

• Mental health in schools or workplaces
• New technologies (apps, telehealth, AI in therapy)
• Burnout, stress, or self-care movements
• Youth mental health or the impact of social media
• Cultural or political shifts around mental health care access
• Trauma-informed or culturally responsive care
• Mental health and criminal justice reform

Your post should include

1. Title and link to the article
2. A short summary (3–5 sentences)
3. Why you chose it — what made it stand out?
4. One question you’d ask the class after reading it

• Mental Health App Review

Mental health professionals should stay informed about the tools clients are using outside of therapy or professional mental health spaces — including mobile apps for meditation, mood tracking, or stress relief. This assignment gives you the opportunity to try one of these tools yourself, reflect on the experience, and think critically like a future professional.

Instructions

Choose ONE of the following free mental health/wellness apps to explore:

• Calm
• Finch
• Headspace

⚠️ Use only the free version. There is no need to pay.

Pick one that feels comfortable and accessible to you.

Spend 3–5 days testing out the app. Try to explore different features (meditation, check-ins, journaling, games, etc.)

After using the app, write a short reflection (1–1.5 pages) that answers the following:

1. Which app did you choose and why?
2. What features did you use and explore?
3. What was one thing you found helpful or enjoyable?
4. What was one limitation or concern you noticed?
5. Would you recommend this app to a future client or colleague? Why or why not?
6. What insights did you gain by thinking about this from a professional perspective?