Internet use and views about online mental health support.

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Internet access, use and views of online mental health related information and support

  • IRAS ID

    214069

  • Contact name

    Stuart Linke

  • Contact email

    Stuart.Linke@candi.nhs.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    Camden & Islington NHS Foundation Trust

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    0 years, 6 months, 30 days

  • Research summary

    There is increasing interest in the use of digital technology to support health and wellbeing. In mental health, digital technology has been used for accessing information, symptom monitoring and online psychological therapies amongst others. To date, the implementation of online support has largely focused on those with mild to moderate mental health difficulties. Over recent years, this focus has expanded to those experiencing severe mental illness such as psychosis and bipolar disorder. However, there is a paucity of research examining the potential utility of online technologies for those with severe and complex affective problems such as depression and anxiety disorders. Important information such as whether individuals with these difficulties have internet access, and their familiarity and confidence using the internet and digital devices is not available. This study seeks to address this by investigating internet access and use in a sample of service users accessing the Complex Depression, Anxiety and Trauma team (CDAT) in Camden & Islington Mental Health Foundation Trust (C&I). Firstly, service users will be invited to complete a survey which seeks to examine their internet use, confidence using digital devices and views regarding accessing mental health information and support online. Secondly, service users will be invited to participate in an interview which further explores their experiences of accessing mental health information online and their views on digital technology as a tool to support recovery and wellbeing. This research will provide valuable information on the accessibility of digital technology and attitudes towards digital technology in mental health care for this client group.

  • REC name

    North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    16/NE/0340

  • Date of REC Opinion

    21 Oct 2016

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion