How do current adolescent digital health prevention initiatives across Australia align with wellbeing domains?

In line with the digital revolution, adolescents need high-quality digital initiatives to improve protective factors for non-communicable diseases and mental health, including good nutrition, physical activity and mental wellbeing. Previous research demonstrates that key stakeholders do not find current initiatives fit for purpose. This study aims to evaluate current publicly available digital health prevention initiatives for adolescents (aged 10-19 years) in Australia, and identify unaddressed domains of the Adolescent Wellbeing Framework.

A systematic search of freely available websites identified eligible initiatives that satisfied pre-defined inclusion criteria. Included initiatives were evaluated (modality, reach, accessibility) against five domains of the Adolescent Wellbeing Framework. Findings are presented in a narrative synthesis.

Of the 21 initiatives identified, 12 were available across Australia, one was available in two states, and eight were available in one state/territory only. Initiatives were delivered through mobile applications, coaching services, interactive websites, resource libraries and one lifestyle program. Most initiatives focused on mental wellbeing (n = 13). The wellbeing domain, good health and optimum nutrition, was addressed by all initiatives. Connectedness, positive values and contribution to society was the least addressed domain (n = 5). No initiatives addressed all five domains.

Twenty-one digital health prevention initiatives were available for Australian adolescents, yet none addressed all five domains of the Adolescent Wellbeing Framework. Gaps in equitable, accessible and youth-informed initiatives were identified.