Using text messaging for social support

Social support refers to the assistance that individuals receive from their close family and friends. Text messaging offers a convenient, secure method for psychologists to interact with patients while strengthening patient’s interactions with their social support network.  

The function of social support in treatment

Social support is the emotional, practical, and social assistance provided by members of the patient support network. A Current Psychology study states, “Social support primarily functions as a buffer of life stress or whether it has a direct effect on mental health (i.e., is beneficial whether or not one's life is currently stressful).” The support network, generally made up of family members, friends, and the community, reduces the isolation commonly experienced by mental health patients through support. 

When combined with common treatment methods like cognitive behavioral therapy, social support reinforces lessons in real life settings. It provides immediate feedback to patients and the opportunity to practice the coping strategies learned in therapy. Psychologists often assess the clients' social environment to determine whether the individual has access to supportive relationships. 

Psychologists also often need to engage support systems in the treatment process through family therapy. In this setting, communication techniques can be shared amongst all members. 

How text messaging can be used to facilitate social support

Creating connections with family and friends

• Encourage patients to reach out to supportive friends or family members through text. Psychologists can recommend patients send quick messages to loved ones. 
• Psychologists can recommend patients practice drafting text messages to communicate with support systems during sessions and send them when they feel comfortable. 

Sharing resources for community engagement

• Regularly send patients information about local events, support groups, or workshops to promote social interaction. 
• Recommend online forums or social media groups that are verified and align with the patient's interests or struggles. 

Promote social skills and networking.

• Send reminders or prompts for patients to practice social skills in real life. It may take the form of reminding patients to greet someone new or visiting a new coffee shop and interacting with the barista. 

Building a support plan

• Collaborate with patients to create a ‘support system map’ by text, listing people they can reach out to for support. 

Best practices for using text messaging in facilitating social support 

1. Before initiating text communications, set clear boundaries and explain how text messaging will be used in the therapeutic process. Have patients sign a HIPAA compliant consent form addressing these uses. 
2. Set clear expectations regarding when and how often patients can expect messages. Remind patients that you must maintain professional boundaries and language during text communications. 
3. Use HIPAA compliant text messaging platforms designed for healthcare professionals offering encryption and secure data storage. 

FAQs

What is consent? 

Voluntary agreement of a patient to receive treatment or share their health information after being fully informed of the risks and benefits. 

What makes a form HIPAA compliant? 

A form that meets the requirements set by HIPAA like ensuring that patient information is protected and only sharing information with authorized individuals. 

Is separate consent necessary for emailing and text messaging patients? 

Yes, it is necessary as these methods of communication come with different privacy and confidentiality.