A peek into Dr. Sarah Adler’s panel on “A New Generation: Mental Health and the Future of Care” at SXSW 2023

Recently, Dr. Sarah Adler, CEO and founder of Wave Life, sat in on a SXSW panel called “A New Generation: Mental Health and the Future of Care.” Joining Dr. Adler on stage were panel moderator Eric Epstein, Principal at Sante Ventures, and panelists Dr. Greg Fonzo, co-director of the Center for Psychedelic Research & Therapy, and Dr. Grin Lord, CEO and founder of mpathic.

While the entire panel was worth watching, and we hope you got to see it, for this post we wanted to highlight some of Dr. Sarah Adler’s responses to what the new generation of mental healthcare needs to look like.

Why do you think there needs to be a shift in the way we deliver care for the younger generations

The younger generation, also known as GenZ, is unlike any other generation that has come before them. They are digital natives, used to having digital access to everything they need, and are highly engaged in the world around them. They want to feel seen and heard, and they want something different when it comes to mental healthcare.

They have been oversaturated with images of the harsh realities of the world. They are constantly bombarded with news about climate change, racism, geopolitical unrest, genocide, and the pandemic. This is the first generation in history that is exposed to these realities on their phones every day, which can be overwhelming and cause anxiety and depression.

GenZ is telling us that they are hurting because the world sucks, and it is an appropriate response. They are shouting for tools that can help them feel better. The traditional methods of mental healthcare delivery may not be effective for this generation, and a shift is needed to meet their needs.

One way to address this shift is through the use of technology. Digital tools can be used to reach and engage younger generations in mental healthcare. These tools can be easily accessible and available on their phones, making it easier for them to seek help when they need it. They can also be tailored to their specific needs and preferences, providing a personalized approach to mental healthcare.

Another way to shift mental healthcare for younger generations is by addressing the stigma surrounding mental health. Many younger people are open to discussing mental health, but the stigma surrounding it can prevent them from seeking help. By normalizing mental health conversations and providing education about mental health, we can help break down these barriers and encourage more people to seek the help they need.

What are the biggest levers you think we can pull to create the best care delivery models for the younger generations?

When it comes to creating the best care delivery models for younger generations, there are a few important levers that can be pulled. One key lever is to establish a baseline of evidence-based interventions that can be disseminated using a stepped care model. This means that different levels of care are provided based on the severity of the individual's mental health condition, with more intensive interventions reserved for those who need them the most. This approach can help ensure that all individuals receive appropriate care that is tailored to their specific needs.

Another important lever is the use of technology and lower-cost human helpers. Younger generations are digital natives and are used to having digital access to everything. This means that they may be more comfortable with technology-based interventions, such as teletherapy or mental health apps. By providing these options, we can ensure that younger generations have access to care that meets their needs and preferences.

One potential lever to create the best care delivery models for the younger generations is through the utilization of mental health coaches, who can provide lower-cost human support. Mental health coaches are trained professionals who can work with individuals to develop personalized plans for improving mental health and wellness. They can provide guidance and support through evidence-based interventions, and help individuals navigate the mental healthcare system. By utilizing mental health coaches, younger generations can have access to personalized support without the high costs associated with traditional therapy. 

Finally, data can be used to drive efficiency and better understand who needs which care pathway at which time. By collecting data on individuals' mental health conditions and treatment outcomes, we can better understand which interventions are most effective and for whom. This can help us tailor our care delivery models to better meet the needs of younger generations and ensure that they receive the most appropriate care possible.

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