In recent years, Dr. Sumbul Desai has been at the forefront of exploring how personal technology devices can positively impact our mental health. As vice president of health at Apple, she has collaborated with leading medical researchers from across the country to conduct groundbreaking health studies that inform the features on iPhone and Apple Watch.
One such study involved partnering with UCLA in 2020 for a three-year mental-health study involving over 3,000 participants. The aim of the study was to gain insights into diagnosing and treating depression and anxiety by analyzing objective measures such as sleep, physical activity, heart rate, and daily routines. By using Apple Watch and iPhone data, the study sought to understand the relationship between these factors and symptoms of depression and anxiety, enabling healthcare providers to detect warning signs and prevent depressive episodes.
The results of this study were significant, with key lifestyle factors such as late bedtimes, increased time spent at home, and reduced physical activity being associated with higher rates of depression. Participants also reported that reflecting on their mood regularly increased emotional awareness and had a positive impact on their well-being. These findings inspired the development of a new feature called “State of Mind” on Apple Watches and iPhones, encouraging users to consider factors influencing their mood.
Desai believes that we have only just begun to explore how biometrics can be linked to various aspects of our health. She is committed to empowering individuals to take control of their health by being proactive rather than reactive. With millions of Apple smart watches in circulation globally, she recognizes the potential for these features to have a substantial impact on people’s lives.
Ultimately, Desai’s goal is to look back on her career with pride knowing that she played a crucial role in helping individuals seek help sooner. She wants her work to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by providing them with tools they can use to manage their mental health more effectively.
In conclusion, Dr. Sumbul Desai is committed to demonstrating that personal-tech devices can have a positive impact on our mental health. Her collaborative efforts with leading medical researchers from universities across the country are helping individuals better understand how biometrics are linked to various aspects of their health
