Investigating internet use by mental health service users: interview study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Mental Healthcare
• Health Informatics

Background:

• The internet is a significant source for mental health information, aiding self-care and decision-making.
• Understanding user motivations and attitudes regarding online mental health information is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the motivations and attitudes of mental health service users regarding internet use for mental health information.
• To identify the benefits and challenges associated with seeking mental health information online.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interview study.
• Purposive sampling of mental health service users with internet experience.

Main Results:

• A primary motivation for seeking mental health information online was to find shared experiences from peers.
• Online information provided validation (users are not alone) and fostered hope for recovery.
• Convenience, privacy, and anonymity were identified as key benefits of using the internet for mental health information.
• Concerns primarily focused on the misuse of online information rather than its inaccuracy.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative insights are vital for understanding the nuances of internet use in mental healthcare.
• The internet serves as a valuable tool for peer support and information gathering in mental health.
• Addressing the misuse of online mental health resources is important for user safety and effective self-care.