Digital tools to support mental health: a survey study in psychosis

Abstract

Background There is a notable a gap between promising research findings and implementation of digital health tools. Understanding and addressing barriers to use is key to widespread implementation. Methods A survey was administered to a self-selecting sample in-person (n = 157) or online (n = 58), with questions examining: i) ownership and usage rates of digital devices among people with psychosis; ii) interest in using technology to engage with mental health services; and iii) facilitators of and barriers to using digital tools in a mental healthcare context. Results Device ownership: Virtually all participants owned a mobile phone (95%) or smartphone (90%), with Android phones slightly more prevalent than iPhones. Only a minority owned a fitness tracker (15%) or smartwatch (13%). Device ownership was significantly lower in unemployed people and those without secondary education. Device cost and paranoid ideation were barriers to ownership. Technology and mental health services: Most participants (88%) said they would willingly try a mental health app. Symptom monitoring apps were most popular, then appointment reminders and medication reminders. Half the sample would prefer an app alongside face-to-face support; the other half preferred remote support or no other mental health support. Facilitators: Participants thought using a mental health app could increase their understanding of psychosis generally, and of their own symptoms. They valued the flexibility of digital tools in enabling access to support anywhere, anytime. Barriers: Prominent barriers to using mental health apps were forgetting, lack of motivation, security concerns, and concerns it would replace face-to-face care. Overall participants reported no substantial effects of technology on their mental health, although a quarter said using a phone worsened paranoid ideation. A third used technology more when psychotic symptoms were higher, whereas a third used it less. Around half used technology more when experiencing low mood. Conclusions Our findings suggest rapidly increasing device ownership among people with psychosis, mirroring patterns in the general population. Smartphones appear appropriate for delivering internet-enabled support for psychosis. However, for a sub-group of people with psychosis, the sometimes complex interaction between technology and mental health may act as a barrier to engagement, alongside more prosaic factors such as forgetting.

Digital Mental Health for Schizophrenia and Other Severe Mental Illnesses: An International Consensus on Current Challenges and Potential Solutions

“…Many research studies focus on “replacing” the clinician, with apps designed for stand-alone use, whereas the research base suggests that blended or augmented care, in line with patient preference, is more beneficial [ 16 , 118 , 123 ].…”

“…1. Many research studies focus on "replacing" the clinician, with apps designed for stand-alone use, whereas the research base suggests that blended or augmented care, in line with patient preference, is more beneficial [16,118,123]. 2. Many studies focus on general outcomes rather than the mechanisms of change, and without registration of studies, there is a risk of inefficient use of funding resources.…”

“…Internet access among people with SMI is increasing [ 14 , 15 ], and ownership of smartphones is now more common than ownership of computers [ 16 ]. However, there are still barriers to digital access and digital literacy in this group [ 17 , 18 ].…”

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Identifying Depression and Anxiety: A Comprehensive Literature Review

“…Ensuring the affordability and accessibility of AI-powered tools is paramount to reaching individuals who need them most. Mitigating algorithmic bias and addressing data privacy and security concerns are also essential for building trust and encouraging patient engagement with these innovative technologies [ 14 , 124 ]. Moreover, clinicians must have the knowledge and skills to interpret and integrate AI-generated insights into their clinical practice.…”

“…Moreover, clinicians must have the knowledge and skills to interpret and integrate AI-generated insights into their clinical practice. By prioritizing ethical considerations, fostering robust partnerships, and developing user-friendly and accessible tools, the bridge between research and clinical practice can be successfully navigated, bringing the benefits of early detection and intervention to a broader population [ 124 ].…”