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James Cartreine: One of the problems that can come up on long space missions are psychological problems and social problems. They can really be show-stoppers.

You are listening to James Cartreine, a clinical psychologist at the Harvard Medical School. He told EarthSky that astronauts on space missions must cope with long periods of isolation and close working conditions with others. That puts them at risk of depression and conflict with their crewmates. Dr. Cartreine is working with the National Space Biomedical Research Institute to develop self-help software for mental health called the Virtual Space Station.

James Cartreine: They use pre-mission training resources to learn how to prevent and manage problems like depression, stress, anxiety, interpersonal conflict. And then there's onboard self-assessment to find out if you have problems currently with depression.

Going to a computer for help with difficult personal problems might seem odd at first. But Cartreine said it can work.

James Cartreine: The research has shown, very consistently, that people are more willing to open up to computers than to therapists, even the most non-judgmental therapists, especially about embarrassing things.

Future tests with firefighters and EMTs could help launch widespread use of the self-help software.

Special thanks to the National Space Biomedical Research Institute – innovations for health in space and on Earth.

EarthSky is a clear voice for science. We're at http://www.hxen.net