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
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