Experiences of a digital support tool – MeeToo: a mixed methods study (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that digital peer support tools could improve mental health, social functioning, and quality of life amongst young people, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a need for more research on the impact of digital peer support, young people’s experiences of digital peer support, how it can be improved, and the barriers and facilitators to engaging with digital peer support. OBJECTIVE The aims of this evaluative study of MeeToo were to investigate: (1) what young people thought of MeeToo, (2) how and when young people used MeeToo, (3) young people’s experiences of using MeeToo, (4) the impact of MeeToo on young people’s connection to others, wellbeing, and their ability to support others. METHODS A mixed methods evaluation design was used consisting of a qualitative and quantitative methodology. Semi-structured interviews with n = 10 young users were analysed using thematic analysis. Routinely collected activity data and experience and outcome questionnaire data were analysed from a n = 398 in the cross-sectional sample and n = 559 in the longitudinal sample. RESULTS Two main themes were identified in the qualitative and quantitative analyses: “I don't like talking to people I know, but having an anonymous platform…is a really good thing”, and the MeeToo sense of community. There was also change over time in the longitudinal sample suggesting that young people using MeeToo increasingly learned new ways to help themselves and seek support. CONCLUSIONS Overall young people support the concept of MeeToo and have had a positive experience of the app. Young people welcome MeeToo as a safe space for both personal reflection, peer support and gaining insight in their mental health and wellbeing.