A psychologist and psychotherapist by training, Johanna Löchner researches how psychological distress can be detected at an early stage and how mental health conditions can be prevented. Her work focuses particularly on the potential of digital technologies, with a particular emphasis on adolescents and young adults. “With her expertise, Johanna Löchner is strengthening the interface between psychology, digitalisation and general practice, while also further enhancing our links with the German Center for Mental Health,” says Gensichen.
Stress, exhaustion and personal crises can be early signs of depression or anxiety disorders. Yet people affected often do not receive support until much later. Digital diaries, apps, secure chatbots and low-threshold counselling services could help identify warning signs at an earlier stage, close gaps in care and make it easier for people to access appropriate support.
Primary care plays a key role in this context: for many people, general practitioners are their first point of contact within the healthcare system. Paediatric and gynaecological practices could also recommend digital services or incorporate them into routine preventive health examinations. “Ideally, mental health should be checked as regularly as dental health,” says Löchner.
Her team has already developed and evaluated several digital applications. In one current project, young people use their smartphones to keep a diary documenting sleep, stress and mood. If their responses indicate potential concerns, they are invited to a diagnostic consultation. The study will continue through 2030 as part of the DZPG. At the same time, the team is developing a digital prevention programme and a “buddy system” for young people experiencing loneliness.
According to Löchner, AI-based services still require substantial further research. The aim is to develop safe and effective digital tools, raise awareness of their potential risks and responsibly expand access to evidence-based prevention for mental health conditions.
