User Satisfaction With a Daily Supportive Text Message Program (Text4PTSI) for Public Safety Personnel: Longitudinal...

Area of Science:

• Mental Health
• Public Health
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Public safety personnel (PSP) face high risks of mental health challenges due to occupational trauma.
• Evidence-based interventions are crucial for supporting PSP mental well-being.
• SMS text messaging programs offer a promising avenue for accessible mental health support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate user satisfaction, receptiveness, and perceptions of the Text4PTSI intervention.
• To assess the impact of a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based SMS program on PSP mental health.
• To determine the feasibility and user experience of a digital mental health tool for first responders.

Main Methods:

• A 6-month, unidirectional, CBT-based SMS text messaging program (Text4PTSI) was implemented.
• Participants self-subscribed and completed web-based surveys via SMS at multiple time points.
• User satisfaction, perception, and receptivity were measured using Likert scales and a 0-100 satisfaction score.

Main Results:

• The Text4PTSI program achieved a high overall satisfaction score of 85.12 (SD 13.35).
• A majority of respondents reported Text4PTSI helped manage anxiety (79%), depressive symptoms (72%), and loneliness (54%).
• Participants found the intervention improved mental well-being (84%), hopefulness (82%), quality of life (77%), and connection to support.

Conclusions:

• PSP participants reported significant satisfaction and appreciation for the Text4PTSI intervention.
• High satisfaction suggests potential for improved service uptake and effectiveness among end-users.
• The Text4PTSI program shows promise as a valuable digital mental health resource for public safety personnel.