Using email for mental health support in Gen Z and Millennials

Gen Z and millennials are faced with many uncertainties, leading to emotional and mental stressors. These stressors require a degree of support that can only be offered by a reliable yet secure method of communication, making HIPAA compliant email the best option. 

The largest factor contributing to stress amongst Gen Z and millennials

According to the APA’s 2023 Stress in America report, the younger generation is consumed by worries about money, with 67% of 18 to 34-year-olds reporting this as a large stressor. The financial burden is exacerbated by inflation, student loan debt, and the high cost of living. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic increased the impact of these challenges by amplifying economic uncertainty. 

The economic circumstances often trickle down into a lack of access to affordable housing and healthcare that weighs on the demographic; unlike older generations, who could establish financial security in a less unpredictable economic landscape, younger adults are left feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. 

How to use email to provide mental health support 

Email offers the perfect solution for nonurgent communications, such as sharing coping mechanisms, scheduling sessions, and sending follow-up resources after therapy sessions. Clients can receive support in a written form which can be revisited when necessary. 

The content that could be shared through email includes: 

• Share stress management tips and coping strategies. 
• Send reminders for appointments or therapy sessions. 
• Provide links to helpful resources, like articles or videos. 
• Offer follow-up support after therapy sessions. 
• Check-in with clients between sessions to maintain a connection. 
• Deliver motivational messages or affirmations. 
• Schedule virtual group sessions or workshops. 
  
  

Best practices for the safe use of email in mental health practices 

1. Use compliant email services: To make sure that protected health information (PHI) remains protected during transmission, use HIPAA compliant email platforms like Paubox. 
2. Verify the client's identity: As part of email policies, make sure to have verification measures in place to make sure emails are sent to the intended recipient. 
3. Train staff effectively and regularly: Healthcare and administration staff handling PHI should be trained in the effective handling of PHI at every stage as well as the limitations of access. 
4. Avoid audit email security: Use periodic audits of email systems to make sure that there is no possibility of unauthorized access. Platforms like Paubox provide easy-to-access audit trails that further prove the system's security. 

Related: Top HIPAA compliant email services

FAQs

When is email the best way to communicate with patients? 

Email is an option available for nonurgent communications with patients. 

When is consent necessary for email? 

Consent is necessary when a healthcare provider wants to use email to communicate PHI in ways unrelated to treatment, payment, or health operations. 

What makes an email HIPAA compliant?

A HIPAA compliant has the following protections for the security of PHI: 

• Encryption 
• Access controls 
• Audit trails 
• Business associate agreements