In the November issue of New Scientist, the article, “The e-Doctor will see you now” found a plethora of mental health programs providing online treatment with minimal medical support. There are sites for depression, and more recently more complicated disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder or panic disorder with agoraphobia. The one that perked my interest was an e-therapy program to treat Bipolar Disorder called MoodSwings. Patients with bipolar disorder are usually prescribed mood-stabilising drugs and one-on-one therapy. MoodSwings includes a psychologist-moderated chatroom, and is intended as an alternative to one-on-one therapy.

The MoodSwings program is actively seeking participants to be involved.  If you are interested please register your interest at www.moodswings.net.au

Another online self help tool for depression that has been around for awhile is MoodGYM. MoodGYM is a free, fun, interactive program consisting of different modules. Check it out at www.moodgym.anu.edu.au