User perceptions of mobile digital apps for mental health: Acceptability and usability ‐ An integrative review

Abstract

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Mobile mental health apps are increasingly being used by both mental health nurses to promote individual self‐managemental of mental health conditions and by consumers. Perceptions about specific apps are known, but the overarching acceptability and usability of mental health apps in general less understood. What the paper adds to existing knowledge? This paper identified consumer perceptions of mobile mental health apps. Six key areas were identified that future mobile app developers should consider to maximize consumer engagement with mental health apps. Consumers also highlighted that apps do not replace traditional mental health nursing—rather these supplement existing care. What are the implications for practice? This review found that mental health apps are generally viewed positively by consumers; however, factors such as ease of use, usefulness of content and privacy need to be considered to maximise and sustain app engagement. Abstract IntroductionThere is increasing interest in the use of mobile mental health applications (apps) to manage mental health conditions. Understanding user perceptions is key to maximise app engagement and inform how apps can be used to support mental health nursing care. AimThis integrative review explores consumers’ perceptions of mobile mental health apps to gain insight into user preferences and acceptability. MethodsThis integrative review was based on searching four databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, PsycInfo. Inclusion criteria were: (i) articles published after 2000; (ii) focused on apps for mental health disorders; (iii) explored consumers’ perception of using a mental health app. Abstracts were screened and eligible papers reviewed. Data on user perceptions were extracted and analysed thematically. ResultsSeventeen articles were identified. Overall, consumers did not feel that app use replaced traditional health care. Six themes were identified: “Helpfulness,” “Improvements/enhancements,” “Technical issues,” “Easy to use,” “Satisfaction with the app” and “Perceived issues.” Consumers indicated a preference for personalization for the app to meet individual needs. Discussion and Implications for PracticeMental health apps are generally viewed positively by consumers; however, factors such as ease of use, usefulness of content and privacy need to be considered to maximise and sustain app engagement.

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“…Studies that directly ask consumers about their experiences and those that leverage app store reviews can provide converging evidence of characteristics that are important for consumers such as a positive framing or simplicity [ 24 , 25 ]. A review of studies of mental health app user experience identified six themes among consumers’ perceptions of apps: helpfulness, enhancements, technical issues, ease of use, satisfaction, and perceived issues [ 26 ]. Additionally, a study examining over 13,000 reviews of 106 mental health apps noted that user interface and user-friendliness were two of the most common aspects commented on by users and that poor usability was often noted as a reason for abandoning apps [ 23 ].…”

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“…This increase in downloads of mental health apps could be attributed to the social isolation that has come into play due to the pandemic. This is supported by a study conducted by Chan and Honey [ 36 ] to understand user perceptions of mental health apps. They stated that although face-to-face mental health support cannot be replaced, mental health apps have the potential to be an add-on source for some and an alternative option for others to receive mental health support.…”