The coronavirus pandemic ushered in a wave of virtual living, heightening lasting effects on telecommunication. The virtual transition caused college students to complete their academic courses online, creating a barrier between students and college resources plus campus life.
Students who sought external or university counseling in person diverted their routine to online as counseling services and universities strived to maintain operations. The unfamiliar procedure known as teletherapy quickly developed into a standard practice among college students, with students seeking online counseling post-pandemic.Â
An alternative, convenient approach
According to the American Hospital Association (AHA), more than 70 percent of younger generations prefer telehealth because of convenience. As classes resume and the workload piles up, college students have much on their plate— not to mention part-time or full-time jobs added into the mix.Â
College students utilize teletherapy via phones, apps, computers and more. Commuting is nonexistent, allowing students to access from wherever they are, but most prefer a private place or in their rooms. First-timers who are uncomfortable or nervous about their first sessions may find comfort in their own space when discussing their problems.Â
In-person sessions can also be challenging for disabled students with or without transportation, per the Mental Health Law Program. Accessibility issues may include scheduling, transportation difficulty and assistance getting to and fro their destination.Â
While teletherapy may benefit certain disabled groups, other groups may have difficulty accessing the internet, a lack of computer equipment and more, which they will need their care provider for assistance.
Is teletherapy effective?
The digital native generations known as Gen Z and some millennials, primarily enrolled in college or graduate school, utilize shopping, working and other ventures through their digital devices. Virtual therapy secured a spot in their digital activities and stay.Â
While preferences vary, students have reported teletherapy success when treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, alcohol-use disorders and eating disorders, per the National Library of Medicine.Â
Aspects seen as abnormal pre-pandemic became the norm, as temporary strategies implemented during 2020 soon turned permanent. If pre-covid life returns, one thing to question— will teletherapy remain relevant?