Someone recently asked CGI Clinic an intriguing question: "Why would someone pay X (eg. a doctor) for their services?"

For those in the public health sector, we might assume that patients only come to seek medical help to relieve pain and suffering.

In mental health, this is the relief of mental pain and suffering. In Western Culture, we tend to seek health services only when we are sick/unwell for a treatment, not necessarily when we are well (to seek a better a way of living).

"It is health that is real wealth, not pieces of gold." -M Gandhi

In recent years, there has been a movement to promote the idea of maximising wellness. CGI Clinic first came across this concept in Singapore, where "Cyberwellness" enrichment programs are provided to schools and community groups to promote a "balanced digital lifestyle" and prevent Internet Gaming Addiction in the children and adolescents (thus preventing other mental health problems such as depression and anxiety).

In South Australia, the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) founded the Wellbeing and Resilience Centre (W&RC), part of their Mind and Brain Theme.

Here at CGI Clinic, we believe that this is a fantastic and modern step forward to mental health services here in South Australia. Of course, we must continue to support mental health services already in place (eg. ensuring patients are assessed in a timely manner, evidenced based treatments available and inpatient/outpatient services are provided). But a public mental health wellness and prevention model is a welcome cultural shift for South Australians living in the 21st Century.

"To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear." - Buddhist teaching

The W&RC framework is called PERMA+, founded by former Adelaide Thinker in Residence Martin Seligman, American psychologist known for his research in learned helplessness and positive psychology. Here is a basic PERMA+ infographic (created by CGI Clinic for illustrative purposes only):

Click image to enlarge

Can we apply the PERMA+ framework to promote a balanced digital lifestyle to prevent mental health problems in children and adolescents? A recent Australian Department of Health Report estimated that there are approximately 78,000 Australian adolescents with problem Internet use and electronic gaming. 78,000 adolescents, is like filling up the historic Adelaide Oval stadium one and a half times. The following CGI Clinic infographic will attempt to apply the PERMA+ framework to help children and adolescents with their use of digital technology.