The content and quality of Canadian trauma and PTSD websites.

Abstract

Searching for mental health resources online has become a common practice among individuals who have experienced traumatic stress. However, little is known about the quality of the information available online. This can have important implications from a knowledge dissemination and treatment perspective. This descriptive analysis explores the content and quality of Canadian trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) websites available on Google.ca. Data were collected between 2018 and 2020 using a systematic search algorithm that consisted of 14 traumatic events, four trauma-related phrases, and 14 Canadian geographic regions. Each website's content was evaluated using the Trauma Website Content Checklist. The DISCERN Handbook was used to determine website quality. A total of 964 websites were included in the analysis. Content and quality varied considerably across websites and between regions. Notably, only 10% of websites included information on the diagnostic criteria of PTSD, whereas 69% of websites included information on treatments for PTSD. The average DISCERN score was 2.92 out of 5, with 53% of websites falling below a "fair" rating, as indicated by a DISCERN score of 3. Crucial information is absent from the majority of Canadian trauma and PTSD-related websites, particularly regarding diagnostic criteria and risks and benefits of treatments. Gaps in the trauma-related resources available on Google.ca are discussed, and the necessity for improved content and quality of Canadian trauma-related websites is presented. Public Significance StatementThe findings of this review indicate that most Canadian trauma-related websites are missing important trauma-related content, and that the overall quality of these websites is fair to low. These findings communicate a need for comprehensive websites on trauma and trauma-related disorders in Canada, especially given the popularity of using Google to learn about mental health concerns. Professionals should consider the importance of publishing comprehensive, accessible online resources on trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder, and the public should be wary of the extensiveness and accuracy of trauma-related information they may find online.