Web-based Interventions for Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health: Preliminary findings from a Scoping Review

This scoping review evaluated the efficacy and potential of web-based interventions for substance use disorders and mental health conditions. The studies comprise randomized controlled trials, pilot trials, and effectiveness trials. Web-based interventions consistently demonstrated significant reductions in substance use, improvements in mental health outcomes (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety), and enhancements in emotion regulation, help-seeking, and quality of life. Several studies found web-based interventions to be non-inferior or superior to traditional face-to-face treatments. Despite limitations in the current evidence base, such as methodological issues and lack of long-term follow-up, the findings highlight the promise of web-based interventions in expanding access to evidence-based care, particularly for underserved populations. Future research should focus on refining interventions, exploring novel technologies, and evaluating long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. The integration of web-based interventions into healthcare systems has the potential to significantly impact public health by increasing treatment accessibility and improving outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders and mental health conditions.