APA, SAMHSA App Named 2021 Best Health Care Mobile Application

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The American Psychiatric Association (APA) announced that the My Mental Health Crisis Plan app was named Best Health Care Mobile Application by the 2021 MobileWebAwards.

Developed by SMI Adviser, the My Mental Health Crisis Plan app allows for the creation of a psychiatric advance directive (PAD) that individuals with serious mental illness can use to guide their treatment while they are experiencing a mental health crisis.¹ In the app, users can follow an easy, step-by-step process to specify their preferences for treatment, decide who they want to make decisions on their behalf, and share their PAD with their clinicians and other mental health providers.² Launched in fall 2020,³ the app is free and now in use by thousands of individuals across the United States, according to Amy Cohen, PhD, director of SMI Adviser.¹

SMI Adviser is administered by the APA and funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The MobileWebAwards are administered by the Web Marketing Association.¹

“This app is such an important tool for patients and doctors alike,” said Saul Levin, MD, MPA, CEO and medical director of the APA, in a press release. “Allowing patients to take an active role in their care through a psychiatric advance directive that is easily accessible on their phones can be a big help if they encounter a mental health crisis. SMI Adviser and SAMHSA deserve kudos for using mobile technology to develop a workable solution for those who need it.”

References

1. SMI Adviser’s “My Mental Health Crisis Plan” app wins 2021 MobileWebAward. News Release. American Psychiatric Association. December 14, 2021. Accessed December 14, 2021.

2. An easy way for individuals to create and share a psychiatric advance directive (PAD). SMI Adviser. Accessed December 14, 2021.

3. New SAMHSA app will help people who have serious mental illness to develop a crisis plan. News Release. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. October 1, 2020. Accessed December 14, 2021.